A chilling case in South Africa has sparked widespread outrage after two black women were allegedly shot and fed to pigs by a white farmer and two of his workers.

The victims, Maria Makgato, 45, and Lucia Ndlovu, 34, were reportedly searching for food on a farm near Polokwane in Limpopo province when they met their tragic fate in August.

According to reports, the two women were shot by the farm owner, Zachariah Johannes Olivier, 60, and his employees, Adrian de Wet, 19, and William Musora, 50, in an apparent attempt to dispose of their bodies. The horrifying details of the alleged crime have intensified racial tensions in the region, particularly in rural areas where such divides remain palpable even three decades after the end of apartheid.

A court hearing has begun to determine whether bail will be granted to Olivier and his workers, who have not yet entered pleas. The courtroom was filled with family members of the victims and the accused during the proceedings, with protests occurring outside where demonstrators demanded that bail be denied.

Magistrate Ntilane Felleng granted permission for media to film the proceedings, citing the public interest, and adjourned the bail hearing until November 6 to allow for further investigations. Meanwhile, the suspects will remain in custody.

Walter Mathole, the brother of Maria Makgato, spoke to the BBC about the incident, highlighting its potential to further exacerbate existing racial tensions in South Africa. As the case unfolds, it has become a focal point for discussions on race relations and justice in the country.