A Kraaifontein family has been left in shock after a man was found stabbed to death in his home.
The family says what is more hartseer for them is the fact that Fred Botman, 57, was murdered on the day of his beloved nephew’s birthday.
Fred, who has one son, was an electrician and well known in his Eikendal community for helping those who could not afford his services.
His sister, Roshell Botman, says Fred lived alone and was very security conscious.
She says she suspects he knew his attackers as his front door was open when they found his body.
“My brother was very concerned about safety. He wouldn’t just open his door to anyone, unless he knew you. He had lived alone. He had a heart of gold and was always willing and ready to assist people,” she said.
Fred's sister, Roshell Botman, says he lived alone and was very security conscious. Picture: Solly Lottering
She said on Thursday, one of her two sisters, Barbara Kocks, called her to check where Fred was as they had been waiting for him.
“Barbara called me because I lived with Fred at our family home, where we all grew up. I live at the back of the property and I went to the main house where I saw the front door standing wide open. I called for Fred, then I went to his bedroom and I saw him lying face down in a pool of his own blood. He had to have opened the door to someone he knew,” says Roshell.
“When the police came, they confirmed he had been stabbed many times in his back.
“It is a double tragedy for us because this happened on the birthday of our nephew, Abe de Jongh. It is a day we will never forget without being heartsore now,” Roshell adds.
Fred Botman's body is removed from his house. Picture: Solly Lottering
SAPS’ Sgt. George Mjiwu, confirms: “A case of murder is under investigation following the murder of a 58-year-old man at 8th Avenue in Eikendal. Officers found a body with multiple stab wounds. No arrest have been made.”
Roshell says Fred had a son, Clifford, who lives in Vredendal.
She says they have no way of contacting him, adding Fred spoke to Clifford in the week about his upcoming wedding.
“We hope to have contacted him before you publish the story, but if we didn’t, he can call me on 061 745 8909,” Roshell says.