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Five individuals have been arrested in South Africa following a brutal attack on cattle farmer Donovan Marx, who was shot and tortured during a house robbery on his farm in Ventersdorp, North West province. Marx, aged 50, was ambushed as he returned home last Wednesday, suffering multiple injuries including the loss of his ears.

Police stated that the attack was "senseless and barbaric." Marx's assailants were apprehended over the weekend, with their arrests welcomed by Marx's family who urged for the "legal process to take its course." The incident has sparked outrage across the nation, known for its high levels of violence. On Wednesday, police detailed the attack, revealing that masked men armed with guns approached a worker on the farm, demanding to locate Marx before tying the worker's hands and feet.

Upon Marx's return, two suspects allegedly shot him and dragged him inside, tying him up and stabbing him. They also ransacked the house, stealing firearms and Marx's van. The attacker's escape came after Marx freed himself and called for help, leading to his hospitalization. Marx may require prosthetic ears due to the severity of his injuries.

South Africa's Agriculture Minister condemned the attack, emphasizing the unacceptability of such acts in the country. Parliament's police committee chair praised the swift arrests, calling for a thorough investigation. The five suspects, aged between 26 and 56, will face charges including house robbery, attempted murder, and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.

Despite accusations of genocide against white farmers, termed as a "myth" by all political parties, US President Donald Trump has offered asylum to white Afrikaners, a claim dismissed by the nation's political landscape. South Africa's crime statistics from April to June 2026 did not specify the number of farm attacks but noted most victims, including in rural areas, are black.