Stanford wine farmer Jan Malan stands accused of murder in the Hermanus Magistrate’s Court. The 57-year-old farmer reportedly killed a man who trespassed on his farm.
A report by IOL stipulates that Malan had put a video online not long before the incident occurred saying he wanted to sell his R44-million historical farm in order to travel the world, as his sons had no interest in farming.
Malan and the farm’s foreman allegedly witnessed Johan Fortuin (49), a local electrician, on Malan’s wine estate on the evening of July 2. He was reportedly loading goods that were not his into the back of his car. Malan gave chase and followed Fortuin into town to confront him.
During the confrontation, a group of men armed with spades joined them and a fight broke out. In the ensuing chaos, Fortuin was allegedly stabbed to death. It is not yet clear who stabbed him.
Fortuin was transported to Hermanus Hospital and declared dead on arrival. Malan was reportedly arrested for Fortuin’s murder when he was laying assault charges against the group of men at the Stanford Police Station.
Malan was released on a R3 000 bail after appearing in court, and has had to relinquish his passport and firearms until the trial is concluded. He also needs to find alternative accommodation.
Malan has previously been investigated for intimidation and assault charges in 2013 and 2016 respectively.
Both cases were later dismissed.
Picture: Twitter