Detectives from the Western Cape Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Unit are asking the community for help in locating two men thought to be important for a murder investigation in Camps Bay, Cape Town.
The inquiry involves the passing of 86-year-old Gerhard Ernst Kopatz, whose remains were found on December 30, 2025, around 12:00. As per police statements, Kopatz was discovered in a different apartment on his property located on Francolin Street in Camps Bay.
Officials have confirmed that security camera footage showed two unknown men leaving the victim’s home on December 28, 2025, at about 16:00, just two days before the body was found. This footage is a vital element of the current investigation, and detectives think the men may have crucial information regarding the circumstances of the murder.
Although the police have not yet revealed the cause of death or any potential motive, the situation has caused significant worry in the affluent Atlantic Seaboard neighborhood. Investigators are diligently trying to assemble the events that occurred prior to the incident.
The Serious and Violent Crimes Unit has requested that anyone who recognizes the individuals seen in the security footage, or who has any information regarding the case, should reach out. Members of the public can directly call Lieutenant Colonel Adrian Pretorius at 082 777 8499. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
Authorities have assured the community that all information will be kept strictly confidential. The investigation is still active as investigators work to locate the two men and uncover the complete details surrounding the murder