Tragic murder of Mbombela anaesthetist shakes community
Three suspects were arrested in connection with Dr Nicholas Procter’s shocking death, and the case is unfolding. On Friday February 9, a celebration of Procter’s life with be held at Church Unlimited.
“Words cannot describe the pain we feel since you were robbed from us at such young age.” These were the words of the heartbroken family of Mbombela anaesthetist Dr Nicholas Procter (39), who was found murdered in the Mopani block of flats in Green Valley Estate on February 1.
While the motive for Procter’s murder remains unknown at this stage, three men have already been arrested and appeared in the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court on February 6, on charges of murder and robbery, in connection with Procter’s death.
Also read: Three accused of Dr Nicholas Procter’s murder appear in Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court
“These people deserve the most severe punishment the court can give them. It will never bring back our child,” said Procter’s stepfather, Jacob Vorster, and his mother, Margaret.
The individuals accused of his murder are Bheki Ndlovu (38), Nkateko Tshidzumba (24) and Siyabonga Kekana (20). During the court appearance, on February 6, the state mentioned that a fourth suspect is still being sought. The matter has been postponed to February 14 for a bail application, with the state intending to oppose the bail.
“Justice should run its course,” the family said.
A provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, stated that the three men had been apprehended in Protea Glen in Soweto on Monday, February 5. They were taken in for questioning first and were arrested thereafter.
Procter, an associate of Nelanest Anaesthetic Association at Mediclinic Nelspruit, was first reported missing when he failed to show up for work on Thursday, February 1. His charcoal Land Rover Discovery was found later that morning, parked on the bridge near Elawani Lifestyle Estate, on Wildberry Boulevard. The local authorities, emergency medial services and security companies immediately launched a search for the doctor. The search was called off at about 12:00, but resumed in other parts of Mbombela. Information led the police, White River Flying Squad and AG Solutions to Green Valley Estate. It was in a flat, used as a vacation rental unit, that Procter’s body was found. His hands and feet were tied. Emer-G-Med declared him dead at 16:28.
Procter would have turned 40 on February 23.
According to the family, about two years ago, Procter was kidnapped in Johannesburg and held hostage for about 19 hours. His belongings were taken, and the kidnappers released him, forcing him to walk barefoot to seek help. Jacob mentioned that his vocal cords were damaged during this incident, and that the suspects were never caught. He emphasised that Procter’s murder is in no way linked to this previous incident of kidnapping.
In a poignant message to Procter, his family said: “Nic, our brother, son, friend, we will miss you so much. You were always looking for adventure and fun. You were always there when we needed you. Words cannot describe the pain we feel since you were robbed from us at such young age.”
Also read: Lowveld community outraged and devastated at Mbombela anaesthetist’s murder
Tributes for Procter have poured in from many of his family, friends and colleagues.
Mediclinic Nelspruit said Procter had worked as an associate of Nelanest Anaesthetic Association since 2019. “He was well respected and loved by his colleagues and staff alike for his courteous and gentle demeanour,” said Mediclinic Nelspruit in a statement. “As a dedicated colleague, Dr Procter was recently nominated for the new SASA Council [SA Society of Anaesthesiologists] and surely would have been elected, as he is well known nationally for his dedication to anaesthetics. He certainly leaves a legacy through his no-nonsense attitude and dedication to medicine. We offer our sincere condolences to his family and friends. May his soul rest in peace,” said Mediclinic.
On Friday, February 9 at 10:00, a celebration of life will be held at Church Unlimited.
Procter is survived by his mother, Margaret, father, Malcolm Procter, stepfather, Jacob, and brothers Graeme and Llewellyn.
