Premier Ntuli: Farm attack that claimed Singh's life 'an assault on food security'

KWAZULU-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has condemned the deadly attack on North Coast farmer Aman Giyanshwar Singh, calling it an assault on food security and social cohesion.

Singh, 52, died after being repeatedly stabbed during a home invasion at his sugar estate, while his elderly uncle remains hospitalised.

The Premier has directed police to prioritise the investigation.

Singh and his 77-year-old uncle were attacked during an home invasion on their sugar estate in Riet Valley near Shakaskraal on January 30. 

Singh, a father of one, died in hospital last Tuesday. His uncle is still in hospital. 

Premier Ntuli said the killing was 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 said violence against farming families undermines the stability of rural economies and threatens the collective wellbeing of society.

“The murder of Mr Singh 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. 

Ntuli extended his deepest condolences to Singh’s 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 Singh’s uncle who remains hospitalised.

Ntuli said he noted with concern the profound impact of the killing on the local community, particularly given Singh’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.

Ntuli also called on the South African Police Service (SAPS) to intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators and ensure that they are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice. 

He 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.”

According to a source, police were alerted to the robbery during the early hours of the morning. 

“They were met by the victims 73-year-old  mother, who alleged that she was woken by the sound of the front door being opened, as well as her sister’s screams. She was then pulled from her room by an unknown male in a balaclava and carrying a knife.”

The source said according to Singh’s mother, the armed robber then tied her, her sister and their helper with T-shirts. 

“They were forced to lie in the passageway. She alleged she was threatened at knife point to hand over the safe keys, which she did. She said after the robber left, she managed to untie herself and went into the sitting room where she found her son, who is the owner of the farm, and her brother severely injured. They both had several wounds to their torsos. She called a family member who alerted the police and paramedics.”

The source said when Singh’s mother checked the safe, a shotgun, pistol and airgun, valued at about R10 000,  were missing.”  

A relative posted the following message last Thursday: “Still in shock. For the last two days I have been trying so hard to 'keep it together', and go about my day as 'normal' as possible. But tomorrow (Friday) we bid farewell to my first cousin Aman. We grew up together and spent countless childhood weekends together on their farm. Our families were like one. The proud heritage defined all of us and created an indelible bond. 

“Sadly, he was savagely killed in yet another 'farm murder' that our government chooses to ignore. I'm raging - angry inside. Bless you bro on the next phase of your journey. Until we meet in heaven and climb trees, eat sugar cane, ride bikes, and run freely again, rest in peace.”

Singh’s family declined to comment. 

Colonel Robert Netshiunda, a provincial police spokesperson said police in Umhlali are investigating a case of house robbery and murder.

"It is reported that a man, whose face was reportedly concealed with a balaclava, entered the house and held three family members hostage at knife point. The suspect allegedly assaulted and stabbed two men who were in the house. The suspect also robbed the victims of two firearms and an airgun. No arrests have been made as yet.”

Singh’s funeral was held at his home last Friday.

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