- A second suspect was arrested on Saturday 15 February in connection with the theft of Groot Constantia’s historic brass bell, dating back to 1814.
- The bell’s clapper was recovered in November lastn year, but the rest of the bell is still missing; both suspects face charges under the National Heritage Resources Act.
- Groot Constantia is offering a R20,000 reward for information leading to the bell’s recovery and urges the public to report any details to Crime Stop or the estate.
A second suspect has been arrested in connection with the disappearance of Groot Constantia’s historic brass bell, dating back to 1814, in September last year.
The first suspect was arrested on Friday 1 November at the Wynberg Magistrates’ Court during an appearance for an unrelated case.
The bell’s disappearance was described as “a significant loss to our heritage” by the 350-year-old wine estate’s spokesperson, Carmen Lerm. A breakthrough in its recovery took place on 1 November, when the bell clapper was recovered in Constantia, but the rest of it remains missing.
The Diep River detective service, assisted by the Hawks’ Wildlife Trafficking and Cultural Heritage Working Group, is leading the investigation and possible recovery. The Constantia Community Police Sub-Forum, known as “Constantia Watch”, has also played a crucial role in supporting law enforcement. “We are still hoping to find it intact,” said Lerm.
The second suspect was arrested on Saturday 15 February in Spaanschemat River Road, Constantia for possession of property presumed stolen.
Both face charges of theft and contravening Section 27(18) of the National Heritage Resources Act. The second suspect appeared in Wynberg Magistrates’ Court on Monday 17 February, but the case was postponed to March.
Groot Constantia is offering a R20 000 reward for information leading to the bell’s recovery. “
” said Lerm.
Anyone with information can contact Groot Constantia at enquiries@grootconstantia.co.za or Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
