Shock n Plattenberg Bay
Plettenberg Bay residents are reeling after prominent local driftwood artist Bevan van Druten, 53, was charged with the murder of his girlfriend, former Plettenberg Bay detective Anneke “Nicky” van Heerden, 54.
Van Heerden’s body was found late on Sunday, 18 January 2026, in the dunes near Rivertides along the Keurbooms River. Police rushed to the scene shortly after 9:30pm following reports of a woman screaming. Paramedics declared her dead on arrival, and an abandoned vehicle was found nearby.
Van Druten was arrested soon afterwards in the same area. He made a brief appearance in the Plettenberg Bay Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 21 January, where he was formally charged. The case has been postponed to Monday, 26 January, to give his legal team time to prepare. The State has signalled strong opposition to any bail application, and Van Druten remains in custody. He has raised objections to certain aspects of his arrest procedure.
Investigators have confirmed that Van Druten and Van Heerden were in a romantic relationship, a detail expected to feature prominently in the prosecution’s case.
In a disturbing revelation, at least six women have previously obtained protection orders against Van Druten, citing allegations of intimidation, harassment, and threats.
Family spokesperson Hein Bruwer paid tribute to Van Heerden, describing her as a vibrant, free-spirited woman with a deep love for animals. “Her loss has left a huge void in the lives of her family and many friends,” he said.
The close-knit community is awaiting forensic results while police continue to build their case. The investigation is being treated with the utmost seriousness as the seaside town grapples with the tragedy.
