Limpopo farmer arrested after alleged assault on trespasser later found dead - IOL

A 50-year-old farmer has been arrested in Mookgophong, Limpopo, following an alleged assault on a man who was later found dead.

A 50-year-old farmer has been arrested in Mookgophong, Limpopo, after a man was allegedly assaulted on his property and later found dead under circumstances that police are still investigating.

The farmer was arrested on Wednesday and faces a charge of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH).

Limpopo police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba said the incident occurred on Monday when two men from Phomolong allegedly entered a farm intending to fish.

"While on the farm, the farm owner together with his son allegedly discovered the two males and chased after them. They managed to apprehend one male victim whom they allegedly assaulted."

The second man managed to escape and later returned home, where he informed the victim's family about what had happened.

Following the incident, angry community members blocked a road and demanded answers about the missing man's whereabouts.

Police intervened and informed residents that the K9 Unit had been called in to assist with the search.

However, before the search could begin, police received information from a hospital that a man had been brought in by an unidentified individual.

"The victim was allegedly reported to have been hit by a motor vehicle and subsequently passed away," Mashaba said.

"The description of the deceased matched that of the person reported missing and the search operation was subsequently called off," and an inquest docket was opened at the local police station.

The farm owner was subsequently arrested on Wednesday in connection with the alleged assault.

He is expected to appear before the Mookgophong Magistrate's Court soon, facing a charge of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

"Currently, investigations are ongoing regarding the circumstances surrounding the victim's death." Mashaba said.

Police have not established whether the alleged assault was directly linked to the man's death.

The circumstances surrounding the reported vehicle collision also remain under investigation.