Cape Town - A George man and his cousin are set to appear in the magistrate’s court this morning for the murder of his wife, Joan Singrew, who was reported missing earlier this month.
An extensive search for the 54-year-old woman who went missing on November 21 ended in tragedy last week when her body was discovered dumped at the Groot Brakrivier.
Police spokesperson, Christopher Spies, said an investigation into the murder led to the arrest of two men on Friday.
“The preliminary investigation into the disappearance, at the time, revealed that the victim was reported missing by her next of kin on Thursday, November 21, as there was no trace of her when the daughter returned home.
“A search party was established, which commenced with an extensive search with the deployment of various police units and strategic stakeholders.
“Further investigation took police to Groot Brakrivier on Monday, November 25, where the body of the missing woman was found.
“Crime scene experts combed the scene for clues, and a murder docket was subsequently opened.”
Spies said a post-mortem to determine the cause of death was conducted on Wednesday and now formed part of the ongoing police probe.
“Conville police arrested two men aged 45 and 46 on Friday, November 29, in connection with the murder.
“The suspects remain in police custody and are expected to make their first court appearance in the George Magistrate’s Court on Monday (today).”
Shortly after the arrests, it was revealed that Singrew’s husband, Duane, and his cousin had been taken into custody.
The Cape Argus reached out to Singrew’s family who declined to comment yesterday, but a social media post by her granddaughter revealed she had planned on divorcing her husband.
“You thought you could get away with murder. She didn’t deserve this and all because she wanted to divorce you,” the post reads.
“You thought you could just get away with all the years that you abused my ouma and us and thought it wouldn’t come out. I am so glad my ouma is free from all the pain and hurt you put her through...
“You and your family will live a difficult life because you planned her murder. Shame on you.”
Patrick Blaauw, chairperson of the Garden Route Community Policing Forum (CPF), said: “The community is in shock and disbelief. We don’t know all the details but we understand her husband and cousin were arrested. At the time of her disappearance the neighbourhood watches, sub-forums, and the community rallied together to help find her.
“Gender-Based Violence crimes continue to be prevalent and the community is saddened by her passing.”