Johannesburg – Two KwaZulu-Natal men appeared in the Richmond Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday in connection with the murder of a farmer, police said.

Jabulani Ngobese, 28, and Siboniso Mtolo, 27, were arrested on Monday in connection with the murder of Michael Hampson near Mid Illovo, police spokesperson Thulani Zwane said.

“On 27 September around 13:30, Michael Hampson, from Eston farm near Mid Illovo, was in his bakkie with his son when they were allegedly attacked by two suspects.

“Hampson was shot and killed instantly. The suspects fled the scene with his shotgun that was allegedly used to kill him.”

Hampson’s son was not injured during the attack.

The matter was postponed to next Wednesday. The men would remain in police custody.

Community Safety MEC Willies Mchunu welcomed the arrests.

“Let those who have made it their work to commit criminal activities in the province be warned that they cannot escape the long arm of law and justice,” he said.

“We urge members of the community to work with the police to ensure that those rotten apples that harass our communities are removed from the society.”

– SAPA