VIRGINIA – The Free State Provincial Murder and Robbery Unit has launched an intensive investigation following the brutal murder of Fanie Fourie and his son Dawie at their home in Virginia.

Police are also investigating a house robbery after the victims’ vehicle was reported missing.

According to police, officers from the Virginia SAPS responded to a report of a possible murder in Tulbagh Street on Thursday, 30 July. Upon arrival, they were directed to an outside room where they discovered the bodies of two men, aged 40 and 68.

The victims were found with their hands and feet bound. Blood was found on the floor of the room. Police said one of the men had a plastic covering over his head, while the other had allegedly been strangled with a wire around his neck.

Both men were declared dead at the scene.

Preliminary information indicates that neighbours and members of a private security company raised the alarm after the father and son were reported missing on Monday 27 July. A search of the property led to the outside room, where the gruesome discovery was made before police were summoned.

Investigators have also confirmed that the victims’ silver Hyundai Getz, bearing registration DNK 369 FS, is missing and is believed to have been taken during the incident.

The Police have opened two murder cases and a case of house robbery. The motive for the killings remains unknown and forms part of the ongoing investigation.

The Free State Provincial Murder and Robbery Unit is appealing to anyone with information that could assist in tracing the suspect or suspects to come forward.

Capt. Gerrie Nel can be contacted on 082 806 8432. Anonymous information may also be provided via the Crime Stop hotline on 08600 10111 or through the MySAPS App.