Couple accused of killing Malcolm Pather appears in court

The couple accused of murdering Malcolm Pather, 41, whose burnt body was found in a vehicle in Melkbosstrand on Monday, July 14, briefly appeared in the Atlantis Magistrate’s Court on Monday, August 4.

They will appear in court again tomorrow, Thursday, August 8, for a bail application.

Stacey Lee Hector and her partner, Wade van Reenen, face charges of murder, kidnapping, and defeating the ends of justice.

Mr Pather was last seen leaving his Richwood home in his blue BMW 1 Series on Sunday, July 13. His body was discovered burnt beyond recognition in a stolen bakkie on Old Mamre Darling Road.

According to reports, Mr Pather had allegedly arranged to meet Ms Hector, believed to be a sex worker, in Table View, but was instead allegedly ambushed and extorted. His vehicle was later found in Mitchells Plain.

According to the Daily Voice, a bakkie stolen in Goodwood between Saturday, July 12, and Sunday,  July 13, was first set alight, and later burned a second time with the body on the back.

The Daily Voice further reported that sources known to them said that evidence found at the crime scene led to a potential suspect who was identified on video footage in possession of Mr Pather’s vehicle.

Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk confirmed that the victim’s body was "burnt beyond recognition" and that all leads were followed up, including evidence found at the scene.

The State said it would be opposing bail, citing concerns over witness safety and flight risk.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Melkbosstrand police detectives Sergeant Theys on 072 560 2512, Sergeant Pietersen on 082 469 6277, or Bothasig police detective Sergeant Jaftha on 064 775 7492.