On 9 September 2025, second suspect has been arrested in connection with the murder of Frederick Jacobus Botha Ferreira (38), whose decomposed body was discovered in a shallow grave in Forest Hill, Gqeberha. The arrest was made today by the Nelson Mandela Metro Detective Intervention Task Team.
What Happened
The case began on 8 September 2025, when a community member alerted South African Police Service (SAPS) Humewood to a suspected burial site in bushes along Forest Hill Drive. Police initially found nothing due to poor visibility, but the next morning, detectives returned and uncovered a shallow grave containing the body of an unidentified man.
Forensic tests later confirmed the identity of the deceased as Frederick Jacobus Botha Ferreira, aged 38. His cause of death was not disclosed.
The first suspect, George Stols (42), was arrested on 12 June 2025. He remains in custody and is set to appear again in court on 17 October 2025.
Today, detectives arrested a second suspect, aged 39, also linked to the murder. He is expected to appear in the Gqeberha Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 11 September 2025.
Official Response
The Eastern Cape SAPS confirmed the latest developments in a media statement issued today. The arrest forms part of the ongoing work by the Detective Intervention Task Team in tackling violent crimes in the metro.
The SAPS did not disclose further details about the motive or how the suspects are connected, but investigations are continuing.
Community Impact
The murder and recovery of the body have unsettled residents in Forest Hill and South End, raising concerns about safety and violent crime in the area. However, the quick arrests have reassured some locals that police are actively responding.
“We’re still shocked, but glad that arrests have been made,” said a resident who wished to remain anonymous.
