Garden Route artist Bevan van Druten’s arrest and ongoing court process have deepened local concern after the death of former detective Anneke ‘Nicky’ van Heerden, whose body was found near the Keurbooms River on 18 January, reports by Cape {town} Etc.
According to Group Editors the accused, Bevan van Druten, appeared again in the Plettenberg Bay Magistrate’s Court where magistrates approved a psychiatric observation at Valkenberg Hospital and the defence withdrew a bail application.
The state opposed bail as police continue to gather evidence.
Friends and neighbours described the victim, Anneke ‘Nicky’ van Heerden, as energetic and community minded. ‘She was a busy person, larger than life,’ a friend told Daily Maverick reporters, signifying how shocked local residents remain.
Police say investigators are still examining messages and witness statements as they build the timeline of events.
Multiple sources report past complaints by other women about the accused, which the authorities are reviewing as part of their investigation.
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Garden Route artist charged after former detective found dead
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