The tranquil wine valley town of Tulbagh in the Witzenberg has been left in shock following the murder of 73-year-old Karl Lauks, a long-time British expat who had called South Africa home for over four decades.
Lauks was found dead in his car on Piet Retief Street around midday on Tuesday this week.
According to WO. Joseph Swartbooi, spokesperson for the South African Police Services, police suspect that robbery was the motive for the attack.
Disturbing discovery
Emergency services were alerted at approximately 12:15, but Lauks was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police sources revealed that several personal items – including his cellphone, belt, and house keys – were missing, and Lauks may have been gagged with a scarf.
“This wasn’t random. There are signs he may have been ambushed while inside the vehicle,” a police insider noted.
Quick arrest
In a swift breakthrough, police arrested a 29-year-old male suspect shortly after Lauks’s body was discovered.
The unnamed suspect appeared in the Tulbagh Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.
Investigators reportedly found Lauks’s house keys in the suspect’s garden.
While official confirmation is pending, reports are that Lauks and the suspect may have previously clashed, possibly pointing to a personal motive layered with the suspected robbery.
Community in mourning
Local residents are reeling from the news.
Lauks was well-known in Tulbagh as a quiet and respected individual, credited for his contributions to engineering and infrastructure development in the region.
“He was always kind, a true gentleman,” said one neighbour.
“It’s hard to believe something like this could happen here.”
Call for information
Police are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Tips can be shared anonymously via:
- Crime Stop: 08600 10111
- MySAPS App: Available for download on major platforms
Have you ever visited Tulbagh?
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