This followed chaos that erupted last week in court when local farmers stormed the building demanding that the two suspects accused of murdering Brendin Horner be handed over to the community.
Violent demonstration by a group of farmers outside the Senekal Magistrates Court in the Free State on 6 October 2020. Picture: @crimeairnetwork/Twitter
JOHANNESBURG – The Senekal Magistrates Court in the Free State on Tuesday morning denied bail to 51-year-old Andre Pienaar who is facing charges of attempted murder, malicious damage to property, and public violence.
Pienaar was arrested after local farmers went on the rampage destroying property and setting a police vehicle on fire.
The group was demanding that police hand over two suspects linked to this month’s murder of local farm manager Brendin Horner.
The 21-year-old’s body was found tied to a pole with a rope around his neck.
Police Minister Bheki Cele was expected to visit his family on Tuesday. He would then meet with the local farming community later on.
Magistrate Buti Mlangeni denied Pienaar bail, saying his release would jeopardise the administration of justice, undermine public peace and security, and cause a public outcry.
He said Pienaar’s release would shock society and would be considered a promotion of lawlessness.
Mlangeni said Pienaar also assaulted a female police officer in full view and fired gunshots inside the court building, which caused injury to some prisoners who were detained at the time.
Pienaar’s wife sobbed softly as he was led out of the courtroom and back to the cells.
