“MY EARS ARE IN THE FRIDGE” — DONOVAN MARX’S ALLEGED WORDS AFTER HIS EARS WERE HACKED OFF IN A HORRIFIC NORTH WEST FARM ATTACK AS FIVE SUSPECTS ARE ARRESTED!
A horrific attack on 50-year-old cattle farmer Donovan Marx at his Syferfontein farm near Ventersdorp in the North West has shocked communities, with five suspects now under arrest.
The attack happened on 28 October 2026. According to reports, three armed and masked men allegedly tied up a farmworker before attacking Marx when he arrived at the property. He was shot, stabbed and brutally assaulted, with both ears reportedly cut off.
In a disturbing account shared after the attack, Marx allegedly told people who came to help him: “My ears are in the fridge.” This phrase has been reported in the media but has not been independently confirmed in the family’s official statement.
Marx was rushed to hospital and underwent surgery. His family has confirmed that he remains stable in intensive care, although his injuries are serious. Doctors were unable to save his ears, and part of his large intestine had to be removed..
Police initially arrested two suspects before making three further arrests on Sunday, 1 November. Officers seized four firearms, two of which are reportedly linked to the attack, as well as clothing and jewellery.
The five suspects, aged between 26 and 56, are expected to appear in the Ventersdorp and Potchefstroom Magistrates’ Courts on Tuesday, 3 November, facing charges including house robbery, attempted murder and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
Marx’s family has appealed to the public to stop spreading false claims and speculation about his injuries, asking for privacy while the investigation continues.
The suspects remain innocent until proven guilty in court.
Do you believe rural communities in South Africa are receiving enough protection against violent crime, or is more urgent action needed?