Update

GEORGE NEWS - It has emerged that Bevan van Druten (53), who stands accused of the murder of his former girlfriend, Nicky van Heerden (54), has allegedly been contacting individuals he may regard as friends or supporters from the Knysna Correctional Centre.

The calls were reportedly made during the past week, shortly before his next scheduled court appearance on Friday, 6 March.

In one instance, Van Druten allegedly phoned an individual claiming that he was possessed and experiencing “strange things” inside the correctional facility where he is being held. The claims remain unsubstantiated.

A former associate of Van Druten told George Herald that he received several calls from the Knysna Correctional Centre number but declined to answer. He indicated that he wishes to distance himself from Van Druten and the matter.

In a separate incident, a well-known social media influencer confirmed that he had been contacted telephonically by Van Druten. According to the influencer, the call lasted five minutes and 15 seconds. During the conversation, Van Druten allegedly made certain claims, which remain unverified.

Sources close to the investigation have confirmed that Van Druten has not yet been transferred to Valkenberg Psychiatric Hospital for psychiatric evaluation.

Van Druten with defence attorney, Linda Mfuduka Plettenberg Bay Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 6 February. Photo: Marguerite van Ginkel

During court proceedings, State prosecutor Cameron Roode requested that Van Druten be referred for psychiatric evaluation. Roode informed the court that an affidavit from the district surgeon was available recommending such referral and that he had received an undertaking from the Western Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, Nicolette Bell, that a bed would be expedited.

Van Druten’s defence attorney, Linda Mfuduka, agreed to the evaluation, and the referral was approved by Magistrate Stephan Lourens during proceedings on Friday, 6 February.

Since Van Druten has not yet been transferred for psychiatric evaluation, it remains to be seen whether any assessment results will be available for the upcoming court date.

George Herald approached Correctional Services spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo for comment on the protocol governing inmate telephone calls. The enquiry included whether inmates are permitted to make calls, whether such calls are recorded or monitored, and whether there are limitations on the number of calls allowed.

At the time of publishing, no response had been received. However, a reliable source indicated that inmates are generally permitted to make telephone calls, subject to certain limitations, including the number of calls allowed.

While inmates retain regulated communication rights under correctional services rules, any attempt to influence witnesses, interfere with testimony, or obstruct the administration of justice could constitute a criminal offence under South African law. 

Legal experts indicate that communication from detention is subject to monitoring and that conduct which undermines the integrity of judicial proceedings may attract further legal consequences.

Van Druten remains in custody pending his next court appearance.

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