The Plettenberg Bay Magistrate’s Court was the focus of attention today as Garden Route artist Bevan van Druten (53) appeared for his bail hearing in connection with the murder of his girlfriend, Nicky van Heerden (54).

George Herald reports Van Druten was dressed in a blue shirt and black trousers, with his hair worn loose and his beard tied in a bun. He was represented by Legal Aid attorney Mr C Mfuduka.

Several media houses, including George Herald, applied to video and photograph the proceedings. Magistrate Stephan Lourens approved the application, saying permission was granted in the interest of justice.

The state once again requested that Van Druten be sent for psychiatric evaluation, following a request and affidavit submitted by the district surgeon.

The defence asked for time to consult with Van Druten before the court determined the state’s request. They also requested additional time to prepare for the bail application.

The bail hearing was postponed to next Friday. Van Druten remains in custody pending the consideration of his bail application.

Family vows to pursue justice

As the investigation into Van Heerden’s murder continues, her family has vowed to seek justice and accountability.

Hein Bruwer (48), Van Heerden’s brother-in-law, said the family is devastated by her death but remains determined to pursue closure. The family has appointed a legal team to support the state and will hold authorities accountable, stressing that due process must be followed.

Bruwer said he and his wife last saw Van Heerden shortly before 21:00 on January 17, when she and Van Druten visited them in Brenton-on-Sea. Van Heerden introduced Van Druten as the love of her life during the visit.

According to the Bruwers, the visit became uncomfortable, and they asked the couple to leave.

Police find body after neighbours alert authorities

Sources close to the investigation said neighbours reported hearing a woman screaming at Van Druten’s property late on January 18, and contacted police. A security company repeatedly called authorities every 20 minutes, as they were not permitted to enter without police presence.

Police arrived at Rivertides near the Keurbooms River at about 00:20 on January 19 and found Van Heerden’s body next to a bakkie believed to belong to Van Druten, on the dunes that form part of the premises. She had injuries to her body and was declared dead on the scene.

A search involving drones and search dogs followed. Van Druten was hiding on the property but was caught when he stepped on underbrush, alerting police. He was cornered before he could escape to neighbouring premises and handed himself over.

Bruwer was called to the scene to identify the body. He declined to comment on her injuries, saying the autopsy and case facts will be presented in court. He added the family has no doubt as to who the murderer is.

Circumstances of the murder under investigation

Sources told George Herald that after being struck from behind, Van Heerden’s face was forced into the sand. She also had a broken nose and sand was found in her nostrils.

Local police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed the circumstances surrounding Van Heerden’s death are under investigation.

Community shaken

The Garden Route community has been deeply disturbed by the events. Many who cared for Van Heerden, fondly known as ‘Alaska’, said they were not surprised. Sources noted that Van Druten was unstable and had several restraining orders and assault cases lodged against him.

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