Greenbushes man arrested for murder of elderly woman
A Greenbushes resident has been arrested and charged with murder and robbery, after a brazen attack on an elderly couple in their home in Rowallan Park a week ago.
Police spokesperson Colonel Priscilla Naidu said the couple had been at home in Maasdorp Street when a man entered through the unlocked back door between 10.30am and 11.30am on May 9.
According to Naidu, the man confronted Martha Snyman, 83, in the passage of the house.
In the altercation, Snyman’s head had been injured and she died at the scene, Naidu said.
The man had then gone to the lounge and confronted Snyman’s husband, David, 76.
He sustained slight head injuries.
Two cellphones, cash, jewellery and other household items were taken.
On Thursday, members of the Kabega Park police station followed up on information about a possible suspect in the Kuyga area and a man, aged 29, was detained for questioning.
“Follow-up investigation on Friday led members of the Mount Road cluster Detective Trio Task Team and K9 unit members to several houses in the Kuyga area where most of the stolen items were recovered,” Naidu said.
Police recovered Snyman’s diamond ring, two cellphones, a DVD player, a watch and a jacket.
The man will appear in the Port Elizabeth Magistrate’s Court today.
Mount Road cluster commander Major-General Thembisile Patekile commended the teams for their swift investigation and arrest of the suspect.
“The SAPS has an inherent responsibility to ensure that the elderly are safe and secure.
“Therefore, we will be working in close collaboration with the prosecuting authority to ensure a successful prosecution,” Patekile said.