The police in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape are on the trail of three suspects who are linked to a double murder at a care center for frail persons in Blouwater Bay.
Riaan van Aswegen (53), co-owner of the Arbeidsvreugde center in Riverside Drive and also a retired policeman, and a 55-year-old resident were shot dead during the robbery. The resident’s name has not yet been released because his next of kin have yet to be notified of his death.
According to col. Priscilla Naidu, police spokesperson, said the attackers forced open the living room window at around 03:00 on Friday and thus gained access to the centre.
“The suspects moved to the men’s and women’s section of the centre. A resident was shot in the head when he walked out of his room. He died at the scene,” says Naidu.
“Riaan van Aswegen, co-owner of the centre, heard shots and came to his room. He was shot in the head in the corridor.”
Four mobile phones, jewelery belonging to women residents and two TVs were looted.
“The suspects fled through a sliding door.”
The police are investigating two cases of murder and house robbery.
“Anyone with more information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects can Capt. Call Monde Sithole on 082 457 2812 or contact the Stop Crime number on 08600 10111.”
Van Aswegen was employed at the Algoa Park police station before his retirement.
In tributes on social media, people described him as a “friendly man who always had time for a chat”.
Van Aswegen was also a keen angler and a member of the Port Elizabeth deep sea fishing club.
