MEC condemns killings at Tweevly guesthouse

Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Pretoria – Free State MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Mosebenzi Zwane, has condemned the brutal killing of holiday makers at a Harrismith guesthouse over the Easter weekend.

“This unfortunate incident took the lives of Brian and Tilly Pope when the guesthouse manager allegedly turned against his own guests at Tweevly Farm, killing two and injuring a further two,” the MEC said.

Brian, 61, and Tilly, 46, were allegedly murdered in their sleep. The Malvern residents were shot and killed, and Brian’s son Warren was stabbed with a garden fork in the chest and throat. His wife Marlene was severely beaten.

The tragedy happened in the early hours of Sunday.

The MEC has sent condolences to the family of the deceased and has wished Warren and his wife a speedy recovery.

MEC Zwane said the incident blemished the tourism and hospitality industry in the Free State unnecessarily. He has commended the police for apprehending the suspect.

The MEC said it is every Free Staters’ responsibility to make sure that every person who visits this province feels safe and welcome. – SAnews.gov.za