Missing Pretoria man found dead on KZN beach
Duan Maartens has been missing since March 31 and was last seen in Silverton, east of Pretoria before his vehicle was tracked to Port Shepstone, KZN.
The widespread search for a missing Pretoria 52-year-old man has tragically ended after he was found dead on a KwaZulu-Natal beach.
Duan Maartens had been missing since March 31 and last seen in Silverton, east of Pretoria before his vehicle was tracked to Port Shepstone, KZN.
According to police spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk, Maartens was last seen leaving Aurina Ford in Silverton in a white Ford bakkie.
He said police are investigating an inquest docket after his body was found on a beach at the Ramsgate Ski Boat Club in, Margate.
“The cause of the death is unknown and investigations continue.”
It is alleged that Maartens was seen at a local pub grabbing a bite.
Maartens’ best friend, Andries Joubert said the family is reeling following the discovery.
Joubert said it is painful as the cause of the death is still unknown.
“The police will be doing a post-mortem which will answer all the questions about how he died and if he was abducted.”
He said the untimely death of his best friend is not easy at all as the story has so many holes and they have so many unanswered questions.
“Duan has been my best friend for 22 years, I am sad about his passing as well as his family is hurt. We have seen his bakkie next to the beach and the details are sketchy.”
Joubert stated that Maartens had no change of clothes with him, no luggage, he had only a toolbox which he travelled with every day, and safety boots.
He said it is concerning how he ended up dead and how he just suddenly disappeared.
“This has raised more questions than answers: if it was an accident or something far worse.”
We want nothing but the truth about what has happened to him.”
According to Missing Persons South Africa, Maartens’ body was discovered on Saturday morning. It had been in the water for reportedly eight hours before it washed up on the beach.
We are deeply saddened to inform you that Duan Maartens has been found deceased. Our sincere condolences to his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/YPRD5CFwK1
— Missing Children SA (@072MISSING) April 7, 2025
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