Marx family shares hopeful update as four accused remain in custody
Donovan Marx smiles from his hospital bed at Mediclinic Potchefstroom on 5 November 2026 as he recovers from the attack on his farm near Ventersdorp. Photo: Ian Cameron.
Platinum Weekly newspaper | Ventersdorp – Eight days after Donovan Marx was seriously injured in an attack on his farm, his family shared a photo of him smiling from his hospital bed. The update came as four men accused in the case remained in custody ahead of their next court appearance on Friday, 13 November 2026.
In an update shared by Ian Cameron, the family said Marx was making progress after major surgery, though his injuries remain serious and he still needs specialised care and close monitoring. The photo was taken at Mediclinic Potchefstroom on Thursday, 5 November.
“It is a miracle to us that he is alive. We see the Lord’s great grace in his recovery every day,” his wife, Louise Marx, said in remarks translated from Afrikaans and shared by Cameron.
The family thanked the medical team and everyone who had supported them through prayers, messages and practical help. They asked people to continue praying for Donovan and his medical team and to give the family privacy as he recovers.
FOUR ACCUSED DUE BACK IN COURT
The case came before the Ventersdorp Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 3 November. North West police spokesperson colonel Adéle Myburgh identified the four men remanded in custody as Alex Phimdile Nomngcayi (29), Mothoka Godfrey Mathipa (56), Mokhema Jan Maishone (53) and Thabo Thomas Motlhonglong (27). Myburgh said the fifth person arrested, aged 26, is expected to testify for the State.
The case was postponed to 13 November for a possible bail application, which the State has indicated it will oppose. The charges include attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
Marx, 50, was shot and severely assaulted on his farm in Syferfontein, near Ventersdorp, on Wednesday, 28 October. Police said his ears were cut off. A farm worker was reportedly tied up during the robbery, and the attackers fled with Marx’s vehicle.
Police arrested two suspects on Saturday, 31 October, and recovered the vehicle that morning. North West provincial police commissioner lieutenant general Arthur Peter Adams said forensic specialists would examine it for possible DNA evidence. The next day, Ventersdorp detectives and the Provincial Anti-Gang Unit arrested three more suspects in Promosa, near Potchefstroom. They seized clothing, jewellery and four firearms. SAPS said two of the firearms were linked to the case.
Adams commended the investigation team led by captain Bonita Dry. He also thanked local farmers and private security teams who responded when the attack was reported, farmers who offered rewards, and members of the public who shared information with police.