Christo van der Merwe’s (57) family is devastated following his death and will leave no stone unturned to ensure justice is served.

Van der Merwe’s burnt body was found in his house in Elizabeth Road in Impala Park, Boksburg, Ekurhuleni, at about 06:00 on Saturday. The house had been set alight.

It is suspected that a house robbery led to the tragedy. The burglar proofing on a window at the front of the house was lifted to gain entry.

A well-placed source told the Boksburg Advertiser that Van der Merwe’s body was found in the guest room.

Van der Merwe’s light blue metallic Honda Civic, registration WXZ 804 GP, and firearm are missing.

The victim’s brother, Kobus van der Merwe, and sister, Marietjie Pienaar, told the Boksburg Advertiser they were heartbroken to receive news of their brother’s death.

Pienaar said her brother grew up in Kempton Park and matriculated at Hoërskool Rhodesfield.

He was an employee of the City of Ekurhuleni’s Parks Department for over two decades and worked for the Kempton Park Municipality before the establishment of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality. Van der Merwe also previously worked for Atlas Corporation.

The brother and sister described Van der Merwe, who had lived in the Impala Park house for about 15 years, as quiet and humble.

“He was a hardworking man who was always willing to assist others. He did not have a dishonest bone in his body,” said Pienaar.

She added that her brother loved boeremusiek and played the concertina.

She urged the public to call the police should they see his vehicle or have any other information about the incident.

The victim leaves behind two brothers, three sisters and other family members.

No information about a funeral service was available at the time of publishing.

Neighbours distraught

Helmet Pretorius, the victim’s neighbour, told the Boksburg Advertiser they now live in fear, adding that burglaries in Impala Park were rife over the past month.

“Outdoor beams have been stolen and dogs poisoned. It’s frightening. We struggled to sleep after this latest incident. We always store away anything that could be used as a house-breaking implement,” he said.

Manhunt underway

Police are on the hunt for the perpetrator/s of the murder, arson, house burglary and theft of the motor vehicle.

Police spokesperson Captain Neldah Sekgobela said 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 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 those involved to come forward.

You can call Crime Stop anonymously on 08600 10111 or send information via the MySAPS app.