AfriForum calls for urgent meeting with Police Minister to address rise in farm attacks

AfriForum has requested an urgent meeting with the Minister of Police to address the alarming surge in violent farm attacks during the festive season. Since the beginning of December until now there has been at least 33 farm attacks and seven farm murders. In some cases, the victims were tortured and severely assaulted.

“This disturbing trend has left rural communities increasingly vulnerable and raised serious concerns about safety, food security, and economic stability,” says Jacques Broodryk, AfriForum’s Chief Spokesperson for Community Safety, who emphasises the need for immediate and decisive action.

“The recent surge in farm attacks is unacceptable. These attacks not only threaten lives but also endanger the future of our nation’s agricultural sector. AfriForum is committed to collaborating with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to strengthen rural safety and ensure that these communities receive the protection they deserve.” 

The proposed meeting with the Police Minister aims to establish greater cooperation between AfriForum’s Safety Structures and SAPS, focusing on enhanced communication, coordinated operations, capacity building and community engagement.

“AfriForum believes that by combining efforts and resources, a stronger and more effective framework for rural safety can be achieved. The civil rights organisation is ready to work alongside law enforcement to address these challenges and protect the lives and livelihoods of South Africans in rural areas,” Broodryk concludes.