Five suspects have been arrested following a violent farm attack on 50-year-old cattle farmer Donovan Marx near Ventersdorp in North West, where he was shot, stabbed and had both his ears cut off.

According to BBC News and Cape Town Etc, the arrests followed an investigation into the attack, which took place on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, at Marx's Syferfontein farm.

Farmer ambushed during robbery

Police said three armed men wearing masks initially confronted a farmworker before tying him up and waiting for Marx to return home.

When Marx arrived, the attackers allegedly shot him, dragged him into the house and restrained him before stabbing and assaulting him.

During the attack, both his ears were cut off.

The suspects reportedly searched the property, stole three firearms from a safe and fled in Marx's bakkie.

The farmworker eventually freed himself and called for assistance.

Marx was rushed to hospital with serious injuries and underwent surgery. His family later confirmed that he was stable, although his recovery would require further medical attention.

Five suspects arrested

Two suspects were arrested in the Ventersdorp area on Saturday, 31 October, followed by three additional arrests in Promosa near Potchefstroom on Sunday, 1 November.

According to Cape Town Etc, detectives worked alongside the Provincial Anti-Gang Unit to track down the suspects.

During the operation, officers seized four firearms, two of which were linked to the attack. Clothing and jewellery were also recovered.

The five suspects, aged between 26 and 56, were expected to appear in the Ventersdorp and Potchefstroom Magistrates' Courts on Tuesday, 3 November.

They face charges including house robbery, attempted murder and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

Police praised for swift arrests

Ian Cameron, chairperson of Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Police, praised detectives and community members who assisted the investigation.

Cameron described the five arrests as significant progress and stressed the importance of building a strong case that could withstand scrutiny in court.

He also thanked local farmers, farm watches and private security personnel who assisted police.

The Donovan Marx farm attack has renewed concerns about violent crime in rural communities, while the farmer continues recovering from his injuries.

The investigation remains focused on securing a successful prosecution against those respo