Two Underberg farm attacks in two consecutive weeks

A BAKKIE that was stolen when 79yearold Trevor Reese was brutally attacked and robbed at his farm in Underberg during the weekend, was found abandoned on Edendale road.

Police said the Ford Ranger was found with its windows broken yesterday afternoon.

Meanwhile, Reese was still reported to be recovering at a hospital in Pietermaritzburg following the attack, which occurred at his farm on Friday.

The timber farmer was found by his employees on Monday, tied up with an electric cord.

Police said the attackers used Reese’s tractor and drove into the house to gain access.

Provincial police spokesperson Thembeka Mbhele said the victim was severely injured on his arm and was rushed to the hospital for medical attention.

According to the victim, a large amount of money was stolen including his motor vehicle, the Ford Ranger that has been recovered.

Reese, who lived alone spent two days lying in the house bound and helpless after the assailants fled.

Police could not confirm the number of attackers involved in the incident.

Mbhele said when workers arrived at the farm on Monday, they noticed the door to the house was open which was unusual.

After they called a neighbouring farmer to help, Reese was found in a spare room.

The incident happens as Underberg residents and farmers are still mourning the death of another farmer, Gavin Carter, who was shot and killed while in the company of his girlfriend last week.

Mbhele said police investigations are continuing into both incidents and no arrests have been made at this stage.