Courtney search: CPF deputy resigns
THE DEPUTY chairman of the Elsies River Community Police Forum has resigned out of frustration at the way police handled the search for Courtney Pieters, 3.
Imraahn Mukaddam, a vocal community activist, said he had a “guilty conscience”.
“I feel guilty because I did not speak out against police. They bungled the case. Nine days of searching came up with nothing. It was only when the community came out to search that Courtney was found.”
He said he was also disappointed that police did not search the home and interrogate the last person who was with the child, the suspect.
Police spokesperson Andre Traut said Elsies River police management learnt of Mukaddam’s resignation via social media.
“Allegations levelled at police regarding the manner in which the case was handled is being investigated. The outcome is yet to be determined and this office is not in a position to offer a comment. Crimes against women and children are a top priority for the Western Cape police and the allegations of inefficiency are regarded in a very serious light,” said Traut.
Earlier in the day, Elsies River residents filled up court 8 of Goodwood Magistrate’s Court after it was reported that the man accused of killing Courtney would make an appearance.
There was also a high police visibility in and outside the courtroom. The prosecutor announced the matter was not put on the roll and the suspect would appear today.
Meanwhile, parents of the little girl, together with trauma counsellor and Manenberg Safety Forum chairperson Roegshanda Pascoe, visited the crime scene in Epping for the first time yesterday.
Pascoe said Courtney’s parents had been well prepared through counselling.
Chrisna Prins, grandmother of murdered Bredasdorp girl Kayde Williams, went to offer the Pieters family support.
Two years ago, Kayde, 5, was found dead in Bredasdorp after she was reported missing. Her body was found under a tree not far from her home.
“I am the only one here who understands what this family is going through. I went through this and there has been no justice for my granddaughter”
Residents will lobby against bail for the suspect.