Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ellen Alberts
Published on 2024-03-24 05:52:00
Two farmers have been brought to court and charged with murder after allegedly assaulting a disabled man and leaving him for dead in Maltahöhe on 14 March. The victim, Benedict Swartbooi, who depended on a disability grant and walked with crutches due to an overgrown leg, was unable to defend himself against the attackers.
Magdalena Swartbooi, Benedict’s mother, expressed shock and disbelief at the brutal attack on her son, who was not able to escape his assailants. She described Benedict as her source of comfort and support, especially in her old age when she became sickly. The two farmers, Henry Vermeulen and Hein Franco van der Wath, appeared in the Maltahöhe Magistrate’s Court on charges of murder, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, and crimen injuria.
Chief Inspector Elifas Kuwinga provided details of the incident, stating that Benedict was traveling with his brother and uncle in a horse-drawn cart when they were confronted by the farmers. The attackers assaulted Benedict with a stone, causing him to go into a coma and later be declared dead at the scene.
The family of the victim is devastated by the loss and struggling to come to terms with the tragic event. Magdalena Swartbooi expressed her grief and helplessness, questioning how she would bury her son and requesting assistance from the community. Despite her pain, she remains hopeful that God will give her the strength to endure this nightmare.
Benedict’s older brother, Niklaas, recounted the events leading up to the assault, highlighting the unprovoked nature of the attack and the callousness of the perpetrators. He described how they were denied access through a farm and decided to camp out for the night before being ambushed by the farmers, who ultimately took Benedict’s life.
Johannes, Benedict’s uncle, shared his fear for his own safety as a young farmworker in the aftermath of the incident. The family is left traumatized by the tragic loss of Benedict, a beloved member who had dreams of improving their living conditions and bringing joy to their home. The community has rallied around the family, offering support and prayers in their time of need.
The case has been postponed for further investigation, with the suspects remanded in custody. The family and community are seeking justice for Benedict and hoping that those responsible will be held accountable for their actions. The brutal attack has not only taken a life but has also shattered the sense of security and freedom that the family once felt in their own country.
Read the original article on The Namibian
