‘Confidence’ in murder probe
THE investigation into the kidnapping and murder of a couple who lived on an estate near Nottingham Road in the Midlands is at an advanced stage.
Brian Jones, chief executive of the SA Community Action Network, said yesterday that a group task-team consisting of the SAPS K9 unit, the flying squad and members of the Nottingham Road SAPS, had covered a lot of ground towards bringing those responsible to book.
On Friday, the body of 57-year-old Christine Solik was found in the Lotheni River about 70km from the couple’s home. On Monday the body of her husband, Roger, was found a few kilometres from where she had been located.
Both of them had their hands and legs bound. A pillowcase had been pulled over Roger’s head.
It is believed the couple were murdered during a robbery at their home, which is in an upmarket estate in the area.
While he could not divulge details, Jones said the “very quick” discovery of the bodies “catapulted the investigation forward”.
“We just had a crime scene (when we started), but subsequently we found the bodies and their (the victims’) vehicle was also recovered.”
Jones said family members identified the bodies yesterday, and a post-mortem would soon proceed.
“There is not a single box we haven’t ticked. The family are confident in our investigation,” Jones said.
Police said yesterday evening that no arrests had been made. “We are appealing to community members to assist in identifying the suspects involved,” spokesperson Captain Nqobile Gwala said.
Gwala said SAPS K9 Unit, the Serious and Violent Crimes Unit, and Nottingham Road detectives were involved in the investigation.
Clive Foss, chairperson of the Nottingham Road Landowners’ Association, told The Mercury yesterday that the incident was the most brutal attack the community had seen.
“In the past, people were robbed, but never killed. Maybe hurt in one or two cases,” Foss said.
“It was sheer brutality. Considering he (Roger) was disabled as an advanced Parkinson’s sufferer, he couldn’t fight back, and she (Christine) was an elderly lady.”
He said community members were passing every bit of information they may have to the necessary authorities.
The couple’s eldest son, Gregory, declined to speak to The Mercury yesterday, but said a funeral service would be held in Cape Town. He said they were finalising arrangements.
In a statement, the family remembered their parents for their kindness and warmth.
“Our father was beloved for his wicked sense of humour, his kindness and his passion for food and wine. Our mother was the glue that kept us all together.”
Roger and Christine leave behind 32-year-old twins Alexander and Gregory, daughter Jessica, 30, and their youngest son, Brendon, 29 as well as two young grandchildren.