South African Farmer on Trial for Killing Women, Feeding Bodies to Pigs

A South African farmer and two workers are on trial for allegedly killing two black women and feeding their bodies to pigs. The case has fueled racial tensions. They also face charges of attempted murder and other offenses.

A white South African farm owner and his two employees have gone on trial for the alleged murder of two black women, whose bodies were reportedly fed to pigs in an attempt to destroy evidence.

Maria Makgato, aged 45, and Lucia Ndlovu, aged 34, were said to have been searching for food on the farm located near Polokwane, in South Africa's northern Limpopo province, when the fatal incident occurred last year. Following the alleged killings, their remains were reportedly fed to pigs.

The accused include farm owner Zachariah Johannes Olivier, 60, and his employees—Adrian de Wet, 19, and William Musora, 50. All three men have yet to enter a plea and are currently being held in custody.

The case has triggered widespread outrage throughout South Africa, intensifying long-standing racial tensions. These tensions remain prevalent, particularly in rural areas, despite the formal end of apartheid more than three decades ago. A significant portion of privately owned farmland is still controlled by the white minority, while the majority of farm laborers are black and often subjected to poor working conditions and low wages. This imbalance continues to fuel frustration and resentment among the black population. Meanwhile, many white farmers have raised concerns over the high rates of violent crime targeting farms.

In addition to murder charges, the accused also face counts of attempted murder, relating to the alleged shooting of Ms Ndlovu’s husband, who was present during the incident. They have also been charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm and obstruction of justice.

Mr Musora, a Zimbabwean national, faces an additional charge under South Africa's Immigration Act due to his status as an undocumented immigrant.

As the trial commenced, the Limpopo High Court was filled with supporters and grieving relatives of the victims. Members of the opposition party, Economic Freedom Fighters, who have previously called for the farm's closure, were also present in the courtroom.