Police are now urging the public to come forward with information on the suspects, following the discovery of his bruised and bloodied body.
THE BODY of missing Ainsley Hermanus, 23, was found on a Gariep Dam farm after police received information that “something unusual” had been seen near a fence along the N1.
Hermanus, from Mossel Bay who had moved to Gariep in the Free State for work, was reported missing on July 17 after two men posing as policemen came to the B&B where he was staying, and drove off with him.
Police are now urging the public to come forward with information on the suspects, following the discovery of his bruised and bloodied body.
Police spokesperson Motantsi Makhele said the body was found 7kms from Gariep Dam along the N1.
“He was reported missing after he failed to return home, and his cell phone was switched off. A search ensued, but it bore no fruits (until) police received information from a nearby farm after they noticed something unusual near the fence for two consecutive days and requested police assistance,” said Makhele.
Makhele said there were signs of a struggle as Hermanus’ body had multiple bruises and was covered in blood.
“The night the deceased disappeared he was at a guest house at Gariep Dam with his house mates when two men entered the house and introduced themselves as police officials. They requested to speak to him nicodemously (in secret).
“He went outside with the two men and a few minutes later they all left with an unknown vehicle, and he never returned home,” said Makhele.
Hermanus’ father, Amos, said his son had been working as a health and safety officer in Gariep.
He said the family was planning a memorial in honour of his son, and they were too distraught to comment further.
At the time of his disappearance, Hermanus, an avid biker, was wearing a black K-Way jacket, jeans and safety boots.
Tributes have poured in for Hermanus on social media, with local biking groups expressing their condolences.
It is understood that biking club members drove to Gariep and formed search parties, who were looking for him around Gariep dam.
Coal Train Rider’s posted: “Bikers, family and friends we are deeply saddened and it is with great regret to inform you of the passing of Ainsley Hermanus. His body was found on the N1 between Gariep Dam and Colesberg. May your soul rest in peace. It will never be the same without you”
Anyone with any information that can help in tracing the two suspects is urged to call Captain Molise Kaphe on 0823043264 or anonymously contact Crime Stop on 0860010111, or SMS Crime Line on 32211.
Cape Times
