In a shocking development within a murder trial in South Africa, a farm worker named Adrian de Wet has alleged that he was coerced into disposing of the bodies of two women to pigs. De Wet, age 20, serves as a state witness against three men charged with the crime, including farm owner Zachariah Johannes Olivier, who allegedly shot the victims, Maria Makgato, 45, and Lucia Ndlovu, 34. The women were reportedly on the farm searching for expired dairy products when they were killed.
De Wet's testimony claims he was forced under duress to feed the bodies to pigs, raising serious questions about the circumstances surrounding the case. If accepted by the court, this could lead to the dismissal of all charges against him. The incident has ignited a wave of outrage across South Africa, further intensifying existing racial tensions. These tensions are particularly pronounced in rural areas, as the remnants of apartheid still linger more than 30 years after its abolition, with most farmland remaining under the control of a white minority, while the majority of farm workers are black and underpaid.
Alongside De Wet, 50-year-old William Musora, a co-accused, also faces charges, along with Olivier, who is 60. Both have yet to enter pleas and remain in custody. They are also charged with attempted murder for an assault on Ndlovu's husband, who was present during the murder of the women, as well as possession of an unlicensed firearm and obstruction of justice for allegedly concealing evidence.
The courtroom was filled with supporters and family members of the victims, reflecting the deep emotional weight of the case. Members of the opposition party Economic Freedom Fighters, who have advocated for the closure of the farm, were also present. The trial has been postponed until next week as the case continues to draw national attention regarding issues of race and justice in South Africa.
