Farm Murders: Women’s Bodies Found in Pigsty Spark Outrage in Mankweng Court
Outrage as Three Suspects in Farm Murders of Two Women Appear in Mankweng Court
Tensions ran high at the Mankweng Magistrates Court as three suspects, Zacariah Olivier (60), Adriaan De Wet (19), and William Musoro (45), appeared for their formal bail application, accused of fatally shooting Maria Makgato (47) and Lucia Ndlovu (34).
The victims’ decomposed bodies were discovered in a pigsty, partially consumed by pigs.
The courtroom was filled with distraught family members, including Maria’s son, Mapaila Makgato, who was visibly inconsolable. Residents picketed outside, demanding justice.
The accused face multiple charges, including murder, attempted murder, and possession of illegal firearms. The case was postponed to 10 September to allow the defense more time for consultation.
Advocates representing the accused argued that they had not been given sufficient time to prepare, with concerns raised over access to police statements. The prosecution, however, resisted efforts by the defense to access certain documents.
Minister of Social Development, Tolashe, who attended the proceedings, expressed her commitment to supporting the victims’ families, including ensuring Maria’s children complete their education.
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The ANC Women’s League and local residents called for the denial of bail and demanded severe punishment for the accused, citing the brutality of the crime and its occurrence during Women’s Month as particularly distressing.
