UPDATE: Impala Park murder: SAPS pursue positive lead
The metro is dumbstruck about the murder of its employee.
While condolences continue to pour in for Impala Park murder victim Christo van der Merwe (57), police say they are following up on a lead.
Van der Merwe’s burnt body was found in his house on Elizabeth Road at about 06:00 on January 6 after the house had been set alight.
When the Boksburg Advertiser revisited the scene on January 7, the fire damage to the property was still visible, and there was still water on the kitchen floor.
A window at the front of the house showed the suspects had lifted the burglar proofing to gain entry.
Van der Merwe’s light blue metallic Honda Civic, registration WXZ 804 GP, and firearm are missing.
The cause of his death is still under investigation.
Investigation
Ekurhuleni police spokesperson Captain Neldah Sekgobela confirmed that no arrests were made. However, the police are following up on a lead.
She previously said the Boksburg North SAPS attended the arson scene.
“On arrival, they found the bedroom burnt and the kitchen full of water. In the bedroom, they saw the body of a white male on the floor. He was burnt beyond recognition,” said Sekgobela.
“Neighbours told the police the 57-year-old victim had lived alone. It is suspected the suspect/s robbed and killed the victim and took his car,” she added.
The police ask community members who might have information that could lead to the arrest of the suspect/s who committed murder, arson, house burglary and theft to come forward.
You can call Crime Stop anonymously on 08600 10111 or send information via the MySAPS app.
Council employee
Van der Merwe had worked for the Ekurhuleni Parks Department for over 20 years at the time of his death.
Ekurhuleni metro spokesperson Zweli Dlamini said the metro is dumbstruck by the tragedy.
“We are saddened by losing two employees – Christo and Inspector Andre Human – so early in the year because we were looking forward to working with them again this year,” said Dlamini.
He extended the metro’s condolences to Van der Merwe’s family.
What our readers had to say on Facebook:
John Alger: Too many incidents take place in and around Impala Park. We must be more vigilant and careful about who is employed as domestics and for garden work. Our deepest condolences to the family and friends.
Denise Wolmarans: I drive that road daily. Condolences to family and friends.
Tich Russell: Condolences to family and friends. Tragic and senseless.
Hester Meyer: Sad news. I hope they find the perpetrators.
Lazarevic Lazarevic Lazarevic: It’s getting out of control. These killers are comfortable because the law in SA is so weak. This tore my heart apart.
Linn Corene van der Westhuizen: Catch the criminals who did this, please.
Also Read: UPDATE: Impala Park murder victim’s family will leave no stone unturned
Also Read: UPDATE: Police confirm murder victim in Impala Park was 57 years old
