Safety concerns in pig farm murder case

The safety of Onverwacht farmer Zacharia Olivier, accused of killing two women and feeding their bodies to pigs in Sebyaeng, came under the spotlight during his appearance at the Limpopo High Court in Polokwane last Thursday.

- Koketšo Sekhwela

Olivier reportedly informed his lawyer, Adv Jakobus Venter, that he had been subjected to “severe” threats of sexual assault while in police holding cells the previous night. He had been held at the Polokwane police cells last Wednesday to facilitate travel logistics after his case was postponed, instead of being returned to prison where he is usually detained. Venter requested that the court order Olivier be returned to prison for his own safety.

State prosecutor Adv George Sekhukhune confirmed the threats and agreed to adjourn earlier so Olivier could be transported back to prison. The court instructed investigating officer Capt Phaladi Makola to ensure the transfer.