Caledon police have made a significant breakthrough in the investigation of the murder of 16-year-old Deveney Nel, leading to the arrest of a 17-year-old suspect.
- A 17-year-old suspect has been arrested in connection with the murder of Deveney Nel.
- The suspect was apprehended by detectives on Friday evening and has been charged with murder.
- The case has been transferred to the provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Unit due to its severity.
Caledon police arrest Deveney Nel murder suspect
Following an intense week-long investigation into the tragic death of 16-year-old Deveney Nel, Caledon police have arrested a 17-year-old suspect believed to be involved in the murder.
The suspect was taken into custody on Friday evening after detectives from the Serious Violent Crimes (SVC) unit pursued several leads that culminated in this arrest.
The young suspect has been officially charged with murder and is expected to appear in the Caledon Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 19 August 2024.
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The arrest marks a significant development in a case that has gripped the local community, particularly at Overberg High School, where Deveney was a student.
Her body was discovered in a storeroom on the school premises after she was reported missing when she failed to return home from school.
The circumstances surrounding her death have raised many questions, with initial investigations suggesting that her body was moved from a nearby toilet to the storeroom, indicating possible tampering with the crime scene.
Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembisile Patekile, praised the efforts of the SVC team, stating:
“We will spare no resources in getting to the perpetrators of crime. Gender-based violence and femicide is a priority for the South African Police Service. Hence, we welcome this arrest.”
The commissioner’s statement underscores the seriousness with which the police are treating this case, particularly in the broader context of the fight against crimes targeting women and children.
The investigation into Deveney’s murder has been complex, with various pieces of evidence, including her cellphone and a ribbon found on a bakkie near the school.
Overberg High School community held a private memorial service for Deveney on Friday. Attendance was limited to pupils, parents, and staff, providing a space for those who knew her to mourn and remember her life.
