Newcastle SAPS and fellow law enforcement agencies are actively pursuing five suspects connected to the murder of local farmer Tollie Nel, which occurred on Thursday night, 13 June 2024.
Police officials explained that the horrifying events unfolded at approximately 8:15 pm on Nel’s farm, located along the N11, Newcastle/Utrecht Road.
“It is alleged that the deceased’s son, who lives on the property, was on his way to his parents’ house. When he reached the trees between their houses, he was stopped by two men. The men then pointed a firearm at him, taking him back to his house,” stated a police source.
Upon arriving at the son’s home, it is alleged three more men were waiting. According to a police source, they reportedly tied up Nel’s son, ransacked his house, and stole his firearm along with an undisclosed amount of cash. The suspects are said to have asked for more money. However, it is stated that when he could not provide more money, the police source explained that four suspects then made their way to the main house, where Nel resided, while the fifth suspect allegedly remained behind with Nel’s son.
According to the police source, the men entered the house via the kitchen, before moving into the lounge area where the deceased and his wife were. “The deceased allegedly stood up and asked what they wanted, and he was then shot. The deceased’s wife was hit with an object on the head, and she fell down,” elaborated the police source, noting that Nel was shot four times. During the incident, the family’s dog entered the lounge and was also shot.
Newcastle Crime Fighter Task Team member, Imran Ghafoor added that all five suspects wore balaclavas at the time of the incident, making it difficult for them to be identified at this point.
“The police, security companies, and Newcastle Crime Fighters Task Team responded immediately after receiving information about the incident. The suspects had apparently escaped on foot following the attack, and all role players searched throughout the night and into the morning for the suspects,” explained Ghafoor. Although the men have not yet been found, the search continues.
Paramedics are said to have attended to Nel’s family after the incident, with reports indicating that a local vet also responded to assist the injured dog.
Reflecting on the matter, Newcastle SAPS Station Commander, Brigadier Vassie Naidoo explained,”We are saddened by the incident and send our condolences to the family and the farming community. When looking at the investigations, we as the police will leave no stone unturned. The Organised Crime Unit has now joined in the investigations and anyone with information on the crime and suspects are urged to come to me or the Newcastle Community Policing(CPF) Chairperson, Ismaeel Dhalech, and we will ensure it is followed up,” said Brigadier Naidoo.
Additionally, Newcastle CPF Chairperson, Ismaeel Dhalech thanked all police officers, security companies, CPF members, farmers and community members for their assistance at the scene and for working throughout the night to search for the suspects.
“The collaborative efforts are highly appreciated and we thank them all for their work and dedication,” said Dhalech, who added that the Newcastle CPF would support the Newcastle SAPS in ensuring justice prevailed.
As law enforcement conducts further investigations into the crime, Newcastillian News extends our deepest sympathy to the family of the deceased. Anyone with information is strongly urged to come forward and contact law enforcement.
Be sure to share your thoughts on this tragic event in the comment section below.
Comments 9
A tragic day for Newcastle.
Can our farmers organise a mass show of support, as they did previously, to again highlight farm murders? The community will support your action.
To achieve WHAT??? Our government not interested!!
The only reason why there are these types of crimes is cause the government believes the death penalty is against human rights yet they don’t care about those who have being murdered didn’t they have rights. I say bring back the death penalty, sitting in a cell isn’t worth it, cause our tax money pays for them to be housed, and feed for them it’s free board and lodging.
To achieve WHAT??? Our government not interested!!
My sincere condolences to the Nel family and friends this is aweful I hope they catch these murderer soon what is happening to our farmers it’s so 😔
The son needs to be investigated thoroughly. Something is fishy with this story
Something fishy with your brain. You are way out of line.
1. He is younger and more likely to give the thieves trouble but he was not killed.
2. Why was he still living with his parents? I bet he will get a lekker insurance payout
3. The modus operandi for farm murders is to kill everyone, but only the old man was shot just for asking what the thieves wanted and the old tannie was spared?
Please elaborate ….?