But Intimidation and Political Meddling Continue
By CCN News
PIKETBERG:- After nearly ten months of anguish, DA Mayor of Bergrivier, Ray van Rooy, has been vindicated on Wednesday 18th September 2025.
On 11 December 2024, the Mayor’s home was raided by police. What officers claimed to have found as evidence turned out, after forensic tests, to be baseless: no trace of drugs was detected, and the single bullet seized was proven to be old, rusted, and unusable.
With this outcome, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has officially withdrawn the matter.
“Everything about this matter smacks of a desperate and malicious attempt to undermine a hardworking mayor, to smear his reputation, and to remove him from office,” said DA West Region Chairperson, Koos Steyn.
The DA further welcomed SAPS’ investigation into those behind this clear smear campaign.
Personal Trauma and Community Support Efforts
During the ordeal, Mayor Van Rooy and his family endured deep trauma. Yet in that difficult time, he twice reached out to George C. April, founder of West Coast Sports Solutions (WCSS), for help in supporting young people in his community.
1. Supporting Bryan-Jade Rhodes’ Dream – Van Rooy sought April’s assistance to help Bryan-Jade Rhodes from Velddrif attend an important audition in the United States. The aim was to give this young talent a life-changing opportunity.
2. Fundraising for Velddrif High School
Van Rooy also reached out to support Velddrif High School through fundraising initiatives. Together with WCSS, partnerships were formed with NGOs from Cape Town and Piketberg to organise a music festival and sports day, aimed at raising funds for learners and community projects.
Political Meddling Blocks Opportunities
Unfortunately, these efforts were sabotaged by political interference, particularly from PA (Patriotic Alliance) supporters. Despite broad community backing, organisers were denied access to the local sports field, effectively blocking the events.
“It is deeply frustrating that politicians continue to use their power to deny their own people opportunities,” said a WCSS spokesperson.
This decision deprived the community of valuable support that could have benefited both the youth and local initiatives.
Intimidation Against the Mayor Continues
Even though charges have been dropped, intimidation has continued against Mayor Van Rooy. In the past two weeks, he has faced death threats and survived three attempted burglaries at his home.
The DA condemned this ongoing harassment and confirmed that SAPS has now launched an investigation into these threats.
Service Delivery Remains Steady
Despite personal attacks and political battles, service delivery to residents of Bergrivier has remained stable and uninterrupted.
The DA commended the tenacity and resilience of Mayor Van Rooy, and thanked the residents of Bergrivier for their continued support.
“It is time for the right people to be arrested and appear in court – not a hardworking mayor who is being unfairly targeted,” Steyn concluded.
Picture – Social Media.
