HORROR | Farmer, 50, tortured in North West farm attack

WARNING: This article contains graphic descriptions of violence and injuries that some readers may find disturbing. Reader discretion is advised.

A North West cattle farmer had his ears cut off during a brutal attack on his farm between Potchefstroom and Ventersdorp on Wednesday, 28 October.

Donovan Marx, 50, was also shot in the back and stabbed in the leg during the attack.

Paramedics rushed him to Mediclinic Potchefstroom, where doctors treated his injuries.

His brother-in-law, Pieter Steyn, confirmed to the Potchefstroom Herald that Marx was stable and had undergone surgery on Wednesday.

What happened during the farm attack?

According to reports, the attackers struck after Marx’s wife, Louise, left for work in Ventersdorp shortly before 08:00.

The assailants allegedly tied up a farmworker before turning on Marx.

The worker later managed to free himself and raise the alarm. He escaped without injuries.

The attackers fled in Marx’s red Isuzu bakkie.

Authorities issued an alert at approximately 11:40, urging motorists to look out for the stolen vehicle.

Members of the public were warned not to confront the suspects, who were believed to be armed.

Freedom Front Plus condemns attack

Freedom Front Plus leader Corné Mulder condemned the attack and called for urgent action to protect farming communities.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Mulder said Marx had sustained serious injuries and that doctors were attempting to remove a bullet from his back.

The party described the attack as exceptionally brutal.

Mulder also called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to prioritise farm attacks and strengthen measures to protect rural communities.

Community gathers to pray for farmer

Residents rallied around the Marx family following news of the attack.

A prayer gathering was organised outside Mediclinic Potchefstroom on Wednesday evening, with community members invited to pray for his recovery.

North West police spokesperson Captain Majang Skalkie told the Potchefstroom Herald that she would provide feedback once all the relevant information was available.

Police were still investigating the attack at the time of the report.