BANDELIERKOP – A local businessman and farmer, Mr Deon Lubbe, who shot three dogs involved in a poaching operation on his farm, appeared in court this week on a charge of attempted murder. He was released on R1 000 bail.

Mr Lubbe, who was alerted by neighbours that there were illegal hunting dogs on his premises, went out by night and was allegedly attacked by the dogs. He fired with his shotgun at the attacking dogs, and killed them.

When he reported the matter the next day, he was informed that the owners of the poaching dogs had laid a charge of attempted murder against him. They claim that they were hit by some of the shotgun pellets, while they were poaching. Mr Lubbe said that at the time he had to defend himself against the attacking animals hehad not been aware that there were people in close proximity.