Slain Candice Robertson laid to rest

FAMILY and friends laid to rest 38-year-old Candice Robertson, who was allegedly strangled to death by her boyfriend, during an emotional funeral service on Friday.

Robertson was allegedly killed by her boyfriend Ethian van de Merwe at the Jambo Guest House on April 30.

Van de Merwe, 50, was arrested the same day and appeared in court on Friday.

Some family members and supporters attended proceedings at the Cape Town Magistrate's court, and said they would be back this Friday when Van de Merwe is expected to appear again.

They have also started a petition calling for no bail.

Robertson's friend Karen Kwalie said: “The family tried their best to make the funeral very dignified but it was a very intimate and a sad proceeding.

“We are hoping that someone comes forth as there is a request for any witnesses or anyone (with information),” said Kwalie.

She said when they got the news of Robertson's death, they were devastated.

“We were broken to a deep extent, the sigh of relief will come knowing that we did something on her behalf, we did not only do something for her name to be remembered but for every other victims who did not get this opportunity,” said Kwalie of the no bail petition.

“There are strong women and together we are a united force especially as a community.

“As a whole we are no longer going to stand for this,” she said.

Police spokesperson Frederick Van Wyk said a murder case was being investigated.

“The 50 year old suspect is still in custody and was arrested the same day as the incident.

“He appeared in the Cape Town Magistrates court on Friday,” Van Wyk said.