Update

KNYSNA NEWS - The community of Hornlee has been shocked by the death of 59-year-old Anna Moos, who went missing two weeks ago and was found dead on Tuesday 11 January.

According to Southern Cape police spokesperson Captain Malcolm Pojie, Moos was last seen alive by members of the community on the evening of Friday 7 January. 

Three days later, on the evening of Monday 10 January, a missing person report was filed at the Knysna Police Station.

An intensive search for Moos followed. "A search party led by the investigating officer, comprising specialised units, including the K-9 (dog unit) and members of the community ensued, resulting in the discovery of the body of the 59-year-old lady the day thereafter on Tuesday 11 January," said Pojie.

Moos' body was already partially decomposed when it was discovered by a member of the community in some bushes between Alemein and Stroebel Streets in Hornlee.

"An autopsy was conducted to determine the possible cause of death. Such report is not available at this stage and will be produced in court as part of the evidence," Pojie said. The search then began for the suspect in her death - her 28-year-old son.

"Endurance and the constant following up on information about the whereabouts of the wanted suspect, son of the deceased, resulted in his arrest by members of the community who handed him over to the investigation team," Pojie said.

Rolin Moos (28) was arrested on Friday 14 January, a week after his mother was last seen alive by members of the community. His apprehension was a direct result of combined efforts by the police and members of the community.

"Western Cape Provincial management has praised the combined efforts and cooperation between the police and community which resulted in the perpetrator to be brought before a court of law to be held accountable for the brutal murder of his mother," Pojie said.

"Efforts to protect our most vulnerable, such as women and children, are often jeopardised as the perpetrators sometimes are those who are the closest to the victims, those who are supposed to shelter, care and protect them, such as in this case. We also want to thank the community who assisted the police with the search for the victim."

Rolin Moos appeared in the Knysna Magistrate's Court on a charge of murder on Monday 17 January.

Pojie confirmed that the matter was postponed to 25 January for a formal bail application and Moos was remanded in custody.

A memorial service was held in remembrance of Anna Moos at the Outreach Ministry Church on Tuesday 18 January. She was later laid to rest at the Knysna cemetery.

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