SAPS Praised for Major Breakthrough in Farm Murder Case

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has been praised Saturday evening for making a major breakthrough in the Thabazimbi farm murder which took place yesterday on Spitskop Small Holding in Limpopo.

The police launched a “massive manhunt” following the murder of 54-year-old Bertie Cilliers, and called on the public for any information.

Late Saturday afternoon SAPS reported in a statement on social media that: “”This morning information was received that the suspect in this matter was seen around the Rustenburg area in the North West Province.

“Members reacted swiftly, joined by the Rustenburg Flying Squad. When the suspect noticed that his vehicle was being followed by SAPS members, a high speed chase ensued along the Sun City road.

“The suspect was cornered and pulled off the road, he allegedly then shot himself in the head with the firearm believed to have been used during the farm attack.

“The suspect (25) was seriously wounded and taken to the hospital for medical treatment under Police guard. The firearm was confiscated and investigations are continuing.

“It is alleged that yesterday, 2 December 2016 at about 14:00, the son of the victim found the victim’s body in the kitchen lying on the floor. The farmer sustained several gunshot wounds.

“Spent cartridges were found at the scene and at this stage It is not yet what was stolen from the house.

“The deceased’s vehicle, a Ford Ranger, was found abandoned a few kilometres from the crime scene.”

Social media users commended the police for their immediate and “great response”. The suspect is reported to allegedly be the son-in-law of Cilliers.

SAPS said the investigation will continue and the suspect will appear in the local court once he is fit to do so.

Our thoughts and prayers with the family and friends of Bertie Cilliers.