The body of a young woman was found last Tuesday on the open field next to Sovereign Street in Morgen’s Village – the same spot where the body of a Woodlands man was found in July.
Lindsay Dean Opperman’s body was found on Tuesday September 4, a few metres from where the body of Bradley Adrian Fredericks was found on Sunday July 22 in a shallow grave (“Body of missing man found”, Plainsman, July 25) after being reported missing by his family.
It is believed Ms Dean Opperman, from Lentegeur, was followed by a man wearing a red top and red shoes while she was walking across the field, said Lieutenant Colonel André Traut, SAPS Western Cape media officer.
Police suspect Ms Dean Opperman was raped. At this stage the cause of death is unknown and a post mortem has not been completed.
An inquest and a rape case have been opened for investigation. Anyone with information can contact the investigating officer, Constable Francois Jordaan, on 076 250 5246 who is stationed at the Serious Violent Crime unit at Lentegeur SAPS.
Clarence Human, chairperson of the Woodlands Residents’ Association, said: “People use this field as a short-cut to get to the other side of Woodlands area. The bush needs to be cleared as it is a haven for criminals and crime.”
Joan Woodman, councillor for Ward 75 (Colorado Park, Morgen’s Village, Westgate, Wildwood, Rondevlei Park, Woodlands, Weltevreden Valley, Philippi, Highlands Village, Hyde Park, and New Woodlands) said: “This area was identified as a biodiversity area, where we have indigenous plants and species. We are aware that this very area has become a safety hazard and a dumping site. I am engaging with the relevant role-players to discuss how we can remedy this situation.”
Captain Ian Williams, spokesperson for Mitchell’s Plain SAPS, said: “We always advise people to rather avoid so-called short-cuts over fields, hills and parks. These places are often obscured as they provide hiding places for criminals to confront and take advantage of persons, especially if victims are female, outnumbered or defenceless.
“It is also more unlikely that someone will hear cries for help or be able to spot an attacker beforehand. It always makes more sense to keep to main routes. Your life is more valuable than property.”
He said people should always walk in groups, keep valuables, cash and cellphones out of sight, always be aware of your surroundings such as people standing on corners, people following you, avoid short-cuts, walking over railway lines, through alleys and over deserted fields.
When travelling on foot, rather use busy routes. Always let someone know where you are going to and your expected time of return or arrival.
Know your emergency numbers.