Community fears rise in Fish Hoek as parolee linked to violent crimes goes missing

At the same time that  police are following up leads into the murder of  22-year- old Rachel Otte, found murdered in her rented cottage in Fish Hoek, they have issued a warning to residents in the area about a parolee gone missing, in violation of his parole conditions.

Police in Fish Hoek emphasised that the search for Malusi Stimela, convicted in 2006 for rape, attempted murder and burglary and sentenced to 30 years imprisonment, is unrelated to the investigation into the  murder of Otte. They have urged residents, who spot him or have information, to contact Fish Hoek SAPS on 021 784 2720 or notify their neighbourhood watch. Stimela was recently release on parole and placed under house arrest.

Otte's remains were found in her cottage in Echo Road, Fish Hoek. Police are investigating cases of murder, house break-in and robbery.  Otte was a photographic and digital designer from the Eastern Cape. 

A resident from the usually quiet town of Fish Hoek, who spoke to Weekend Argus earlier this week, said news of the incident spread rapidly throughout the community.

“Obviously we are scared. Who will be the next target? We are also scared because things like this never happen in our area,” he said, adding that he cut his trip short after hearing what happened.

A construction worker who was on site the following morning of the murder said police were moving up and down the mountain slope where Otte’s cottage is located.

In online groups, talk was on the uptick in home invasions in the Deep South, which include Fish Hoek and Simon's Town.

In response to the growing unease, police issued a safety advisory urging residents to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings—particularly when arriving home or while out hiking in the area.

“Take extra precautions around possible entry points that can be used to gain access to premises,” SAPS advised.

“In a situation where there is a home invasion, try to stay calm and avoid any actions that could cause the situation to escalate. Get to know your neighbours, neighbourhood watch members and security providers in your area.”

Fish Hoek CPF chairperson Andre Blom also urged residents to stay alert while avoiding panic and speculation.

“Residents are reminded to remain vigilant, take extra security precautions and report any suspicious activity to local authorities or neighbourhood watch members,” Blom said. 

“The FHCPF once again appeals to the community to refrain from speculation or sharing unverified information that could hinder the investigation or cause further distress to the victim’s family and friends.”

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Weekend Argus