The Premier of KwaZulu-Natal Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, has strongly condemned the brutal murder of farmer Mr Aman Giyanshwar Roopsingh, who succumbed to injuries sustained during a violent home invasion at a sugar farm in Riet Valley, Shakaskraal.
Premier Ntuli described the killing as a grave and disturbing act of violence that constitutes an attack not only on an individual and his family, but on food security, rural livelihoods, and the social cohesion that binds communities together. He emphasised that violence against farming families undermines the stability of rural economies and threatens the collective wellbeing of society.
“The murder of Mr Roopsingh is a painful and unacceptable loss. It is an assault on the values of safety, coexistence and respect for human life that underpin our democracy. Attacks on those who produce food for the nation strike at the heart of our shared security and prosperity,” said Premier Ntuli.
The Premier extended his deepest condolences to the Roopsingh family, the Shakaskraal community, and all those affected by this senseless act of violence. He also wished a speedy and full recovery to the surviving victims, including the elderly uncle who remains hospitalised.
Premier Ntuli noted with concern the profound impact of the killing on the local community, particularly given Mr Roopsingh’s family’s long-standing contribution to agriculture and community life in the area. He stressed that crimes of this nature sow fear, division and instability, and must be confronted decisively by the state.
The Premier has called on the South African Police Service to intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators and ensure that they are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice. He has further directed provincial SAPS leadership to prioritise the investigation and apply all necessary resources to the case.
“Farm-related crimes will not be tolerated. This government remains firm in its commitment to protect rural communities, safeguard food production, and uphold the rule of law. Criminality, in whatever form, will not be allowed to erode social cohesion in KwaZulu-Natal,” Premier Ntuli said.
The Premier reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to strengthening rural safety strategies, enhancing police visibility, and deepening collaboration with farming communities, traditional leadership and community safety structures to prevent further incidents.
“As government, we remain resolute in protecting all who live and work in our province. Those who seek to divide communities through violence will face the full might of the law. Justice will prevail,” Premier Ntuli concluded.
ISSUED BY KWAZULU-NATAL PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT