Albertinia in shock over killing of 2 girls
THE community of Albertinia is in shock and mourning following the discovery of the lifeless bodies of two children, aged 9 and 10, at a house a day after they were reported missing.
The bodies of Jacorine Vaaltyn, 9 and Sharon Arries, 10, were discovered by residents who took part in a search for the missing girls on Thursday evening.
A 53-year-old suspect is expected to appear in the Riversdale Magistrate's Court today in connection with the girls' murders.
The children, both in primary school, were last seen alive on Wednesday night and did not sleep at home, according to reports.
Community activist Darryl Muller said the concerned parents then informed the police early the next morning.
“The parents were alerted to the kids' bodies by a friend who usually plays with them. He went over to search for the children, he went specifically to the place they usually play.
“Then when he went inside the house and he saw feet sticking out from under the bed, he then ran to the father of one of the missing kids and informed him about what he saw. So the father went to the house, searching for the kids. With shock they discovered his daughter's body in a blue bin. They lifted the bed and found the other little girl lying there. They were already wrapped in sheets.
“Immediately the community searched for the possible suspect, who stayed in the house. Our hearts go out to the grieving families. The community is filled with anger and outrage over what happened. We hope and believe that justice will prevail soon to bring some comfort,” said Muller.
Sharon's father John Moos said they were hurt and heartbroken.
“Their little faces were pressed into the sand until they could no longer breathe. My other kids are terrified and in trauma. We are hurt a lot,” said the father. He thanked the community and the police for their support.
Police spokesperson Captain Malcolm Pojie said the 53-year-old suspect was arrested within 12 hours after he escaped a mob of community members who formed part of a search party following the activation of the police's 72-Hour Activation Plan.
“The 53-year-old suspect faces two counts of murder and is scheduled to appear in the Riversdale Magistrate's Court on Monday.
“An autopsy was conducted on the bodies. Preliminary results indicate that the two died due to suffocation. No visible signs of any sexual assault could be detected. As a result, Albertinia SAPS has opened a double murder docket for further investigation,” he said.
Hessequa mayor Grant Riddles said the community is mourning.
“Cruel death has once again ripped us as the Hessequa community. These types of events are strongly condemned and will not be tolerated in our communities. We stand firmly behind every role player in the case. Sincere condolences and sympathy to both families,” said Riddles.