The man accused of murdering former Plettenberg Bay detective Anneke “Nicky” van Heerden appeared briefly in the Plettenberg Bay Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 21 January.
She was 54.
Bevan van Druten, 53, a well-known driftwood artist from Wilderness and Sedgefield, faces a charge of murder in connection with Van Heerden’s death.
Did not apply for bail
According to the George Herald, Van Druten did not apply for bail during his first court appearance.
The matter was postponed to Monday, 26 January, to allow him to obtain legal representation and for a bail profile to be compiled.
The State has indicated it will oppose bail, according to NPA spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila.
The accused has also been referred to a district surgeon for observation.
Relationship under scrutiny
It is believed that Van Druten and Van Heerden were involved in a romantic relationship, a factor that is expected to form part of the State’s case.
Van Heerden’s body was discovered late on Sunday evening last weekend, at Rivertides near Keurbooms Beach.
Police were alerted after receiving reports of a woman screaming in the area.
“Upon arrival at the scene, they found the victim next to a vehicle with injuries to her body,” said Western Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg.
The vehicle found at the scene is believed to belong to Van Druten.
Former police officer
Van Heerden previously served as a detective at the Plettenberg Bay Police Station.
Her death has sent shockwaves through the local community, with tributes continuing to pour in.
The investigation is ongoing, and police have not ruled out further charges as the case develops.
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