White farmer gives first account of terrifying South Africa raid: ‘They put my testicles in bolt cutters, sliced my wife’s nipples and said they’d gang-rape her – it’s not just about robbing us’

A South African farmer, Les Brett, has described how three armed men attacked and tortured him and his wife, Natasha, at their home in Broederstroom on 1 November. The account matters amid concern about farm raids and debate over claims that white farmers are being targeted; Brett says the duration and nature of the attack made him believe it was more than a robbery.

The attackers reportedly beat and scalded the couple, threatened to mutilate Brett and repeatedly threatened to rape his wife while demanding the safe keys and one million rand. They fled after a local patrol guard arrived, leaving the couple locked in the safe; Natasha freed herself and called for help. Brett says he suffered a fractured hip and other injuries, and that seven firearms, two phones and a laptop were taken, while valuables and vehicles were left behind.