The Provincial Commissioner of the Western Cape, Lieutenant General Thembisile Patekile has welcomed the hefty sentence which was imposed on the 40-year-old Patrick Muller in the George Circuit High Court on, Tuesday, 22 March 2022. He was convicted on two counts, one of murder and another of rape of the 26-year-old Bianca Matroos from New Dawn Park, Pacaltsdorp.
The judgement was handed down by Judge Elize Steyn whilst Advocate Evadnè Kortjè represented the State.
The Judge and Prosecuting team has nothing but praise for the dedication and thorough investigation conducted by Sergeant John Boezak, the investigation officer, and those who had assisted him during the investigation that culminated into a guilty verdict in February 2022.
The accused was found guilty of murder and rape. On 22 March 2022, the judge imposed a life imprisonment sentencing on the accused for murder and a further 10-years imprisonment for rape. The sentences will run concurrently. Representation by the defence advocate for leave to appeal the harsh sentence imposed, was denied by the Judge Steyn.
Initial investigation revealed that the body of Bianca was discovered by a passer-by on 17 November 2019 under shrubs near the George Riding Club.
She was last seen alive at the Nitro night club in the early hours of Friday morning, 15 November 2019. Based on video footage that was retrieved and analysed by the investigating team, the suspect was arrested a week later on 24 November 2019 after he was again spotted at the very same Club.
The accused was initially charged with murder, rape, kidnapping and robbery aggravated with his first court appearance on 26 November 2019 in the George Magistrates’ Court. He was remanded in custody until his sentencing on 22 March 2022.
Western Cape Provincial management has commended the investigating officer and those who had assisted him for their dedication and commitment which led to the arrest and subsequent conviction of the accused. The Provincial Commissioner was pleased with the harsh sentences and hope that it will deter potential criminals from committing similar offences against our most vulnerable, women. This also demonstrate the commitment of the SAPS, National Prosecuting Authority and the Judiciary to bring justice and closure to the people of this country, especially those that are marginalised and found themselves on the periphery of society where gender-based violence and femicide are rife.
