Reneé Lea, co-owner of the Pick n Pay Family franchise and a resident of Standerton, was found murdered on August 24 in Tshwane, just hours after being reported missing.
The investigation took a tragic turn when Gauteng police in Tshwane arrested a 21-year-old male suspect driving Lea’s stolen Range Rover. During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered Lea’s body in the boot, covered with a carpet believed to be missing from her home.
Captain Braam Robberts, the police spokesperson, confirmed that evidence indicates Lea was overpowered at her home and forcibly removed. CCTV footage showed her vehicle leaving Standerton at 20:11, suggesting she was abducted around that time. Another road camera recorded the vehicle heading away from Standerton at 20:30.
Additionally, police found three firearms in the vehicle, including one replica, as well as laptops, cash, and Lea’s cellphone.
Captain Robberts highlighted the coordinated efforts between various police units and Kasselman Security that led to the suspect’s swift apprehension and the recovery of critical evidence.
The suspect faces multiple charges, including murder, kidnapping, possession of unlicensed firearms, possession of a stolen vehicle, and possession of suspected stolen property. He is scheduled to appear in Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Monday, August 26, 2024.
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