Hunt on for manager’s killers
THE POLICE are still searching for the killers of the manager of Kimberley Sandblasting and Powdercoating, Hanru Duvenhage, who was murdered at the business premises in Woodburne Street, Beaconsfield on Friday afternoon.
Duvenhage, 43, who was alone inside the shop, was shot several times.
There appeared to have been a scuffle in the workshop, while Duvenhage’s body was found in the front office. At this stage, it seems that only a cellphone was reported missing.
Distraught family members gathered outside the business while they waited for forensic pathologists to complete their investigations.
Residents in the area recalled hearing four gunshots.
“No one bothered to investigate as we were under the impression that it was industrial noises,” a residents said.
Another resident said that she had rushed home to check on her children when she received a call about the shooting.
“I had to see for myself that my children were safe as they are usually walking around in the street. They were washing dishes outside when they heard the gunshots and are quite shaken. I am also shocked because Duvenhage was such a good person.”
Surrounding businesses indicated that the shop was fitted with security features and that customers had to be let in by way of a buzzer.
Other business owners were also worried about their safety as the incident happened in broad daylight.
“Crime has picked up here and we do not feel secure. It was so not necessary to take Duvenhage’s life. He did not deserve to die in that manner. We often did business with him.
“He made the finest wood carvings out of tree trunks and was skilled at his job. We cannot understand how criminals can be so brazen as it is a busy street with traffic and people passing by.”
Police spokesperson, Captain Sergio Kock, said that police are investigating a murder and business robbery.
“The deceased was shot several times in the body and died on the scene. The police searched for the suspects throughout the weekend,” said Kock.
He confirmed that only a cellphone had been reported missing.
“The Northern Cape Task Team for Trio Crimes are investigating a murder and business robbery that THE SCENE: Forensic police officers are seen here outside the premises of Kimberley Sandblasting and Powercoating where Hanru Duvenhage (inset) was shot several times. He died on the scene. took place at a business in Beaconsfield. A 43-year-old businessman was shot several times in his workshop on Friday between 1.30pm and 2.30pm.
“The victim was apparently alone at his workshop at the time of the incident.”
The police have requested anyone with information regarding the incident to contact Detective Constable Stefaans Mangate on 073 719 5603.
Kock said that all information would be treated with the strictest of confidence.
“The investigation continues.” Duvenhage is survived by his wife, Stephani, and three young children.
Family members did not want to speak to the media.
Messages of condolences were posted on social media, mourning Duvenhage’s death, along with messages of support for his family.