FIVE HELD FOR ROBBING FARMER, BEATING HIM AND CUTTING OFF HIS EARS

VENTERSDORP, NOVEMBER 2 /SRNA/ - Five people are suspected of attacking a 50-year-old farmer in South Africa, beating, stabbing and shooting him during a robbery, and cutting off his ears.

Local media reported that surgeons were unable to save the farmer's ears, so he will need prostheses.

Police said a group of masked and armed men approached a worker who was mowing the yard in front of farmer Donovan Marks' house, asking where he was, and then tied the worker up.

When the farmer returned home, two of the attackers shot at him, then dragged him into the house, tied him up and stabbed him.

They stole three firearms from a safe in the house and fled in Marks' van.

The worker later freed himself and called for help, after which Marks was taken to hospital, where he remains.

The attack took place on Wednesday, October 28, at a farm in Ventersdorp, the BBC reported.

South African Agriculture Minister Willie Aucamp condemned the attack, saying there is no place in the country for such senseless and barbaric acts.

The suspects, aged between 26 and 56, are charged with robbery, attempted murder and illegal possession of firearms, and will appear in court tomorrow.