Former Cheetahs, Griquas prop murdered
NEWS: Former Free State Cheetahs and Griquas prop Piet Bester was murdered on his smallholding near Bloemfontein over the weekend.
Bester was 63 and a retired magistrate.
Police confirmed that two suspects were arrested after the “close cooperation and swift action of the local farming community and police”.
“On Sunday, 12 January 2025, the body of Mr Bester was discovered by a worker at his residence in the Glen district at approximately 09.00,” a police statement added.
“He was lying in a pool of blood, having sustained multiple wounds.
“Thanks to the invaluable support of the farming community resulting in the apprehension of two suspects. This breakthrough demonstrates the strength of community-police collaboration in addressing crime.
“Police investigations are ongoing, and the suspects are expected to appear in court soon.
“The investigation officer remains available for further information and appeals to the public for any additional details that may assist in this case.”
Rugby legend and retired magistrate, Piet Bester was murdered on his smallholding in the Free State over the weekend.
What a sad way to start 2025. pic.twitter.com/SYupOeBcYy
— Ernst Roets (@ErnstRoets) January 13, 2025
Bester was a hard-as-nails prop in his playing days and starred for Free State and Griquas in the Currie Cup in the 1990s.
He also represented the Junior Springboks against the All Blacks in 1992.
#sapsFS Free State police confirm the arrest of two suspects in connection with the murder of former Magistrate Piet Christiaan Bester (63). The arrests were made possible through the close cooperation and swift action of the local farming community and police.
The body of Mr… pic.twitter.com/LJCAlIAv6D
ADVERTISEMENT— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) January 13, 2025
Rugby’s best of the best, ranked by experts. Check out our list of the Top 100 Men's Rugby Players and let us know what you think!
