THE unsolved murder of Hendrik Havenga (53), who lived in Panorama Parade, Margate, has horrified South Coasters.
Two weeks ago Mr Havenga’s decomposed body was found in a ditch in Gcilima, near Southbroom, by a herdsman who had taken his goats to graze.
He had gone missing on Tuesday, January 20. His white Hyundai Atos was later found abandoned in the bushes near Southcity Christian College in Ramsgate.
Neighbours believe that Mr Havenga could have been abducted from his home, where he lived alone with his two dogs. His takeaway meal is said to have been left untouched on the table.
It is not clear at this stage whether any valuables were taken from Mr Havenga’s vehicle or home.
Margate police are looking for Lindelani Eric Mbhele, who they believe may be able to assist with the investigation. Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Mr Mbhele can contact investigating officer, Warrant officer Jacques Buys at 082 3398971.
Sadly, picturesque Panorama Parade with its world-class views has become a hot spot for criminal activity. According to residents it is regularly patrolled by thieves who allegedly work hand-in-hand with a group of prostitutes who are known to prowl and pick up clients along Ramsgate’s Marine Drive.
The prostitutes signal to interested clients and then run down the pathway and meet the men at cul-de-sac at the end of Panorama Parade.
While the prostitutes are busy with their clients in the overgrown dune vegetation, thieves have the opportunity to break into the cars, which are left parked on the road.
Well-to-do businessmen are apparently regularly seen using the services of these women.
Disturbing stories are doing the rounds. Most recently, a man was apparently seen leaving his children in the car while he visited a prostitute. Another man was seen going into the bush with three prostitutes. Neither the prostitutes nor their clients appear worried about being seen and blatantly carry on with their business.
The sleazy activity also shocked holidaymakers who stayed in the area during December.
Some months ago, a body is said to have been found in an abandoned building in Panorama Parade. There have been a spate of housebreakings and a number of cars belonging to fishermen and beachgoers have been broken into. Suspected criminals have also been spotted using their cellphones to take photographs of homes.
One resident said he is afraid to return home after dark, especially when there is load-shedding. “You fear for your life. I don’t sleep with my windows open. It has become progressively worse over the last year,” he said, adding that he had recently had his washing stolen from the line. “I peg my curtains tightly closed as I’m scared of what I will see at night.”
Elderly people, who would often stroll along the road, no longer do so. Wallets, handbags and ID books are regularly found in the bush or along the pathways and wildlife authorities have been called to assist when snares were discovered in the bush.
Police spokesman, Captain Gerald Mfeka, said police had patrolled the area during the festive period and that they would increase their patrols along the road.
