Detectives in Woodstock are trying to establish what happened to an elderly German woman who was found dead in her Walmer Estate home.   

Western Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi, said that according to initial reports, officers were called to the woman’s residence in Ritchie Street on Monday, 22 September, after contractors had arrived on the scene.  

“Reports suggested that contractors arrived at a residence in Ritchie Street in Walmer Estate at about 11:05. Upon close inspection they found the woman inside the dwelling who sustained fatal injuries.”  

Swartbooi noted that the 68-year-old victim was declared deceased on the scene by the medical personnel. 

Die Burger has identified the victim as a German national.

Swartbooi confirmed that the case is being treated as a murder. 

“Woodstock detectives are hard at work pursuing leads in a bid to apprehend those responsible for the death.” 

The unknown suspect or suspects had already fled the scene by the time authorities arrived. No arrests have been made as yet, and the motive remains unclear.  

“The motive for this attack is now the subject of an investigation by the South African Police Service,” Swartbooi added. 

Police have since urged the public to assist in bringing the perpetrators to justice.  

“We appeal to anyone with to please call Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or alternatively use the mobile Application MySAPS anonymously,” the police spokesperson urged.