The family of Ernst Wepener (34) has enlisted the services of private investigators to bring the murderers of the father of three to book.
Wepener was shot and killed during an attempted house robbery outside his home on Homestead Street, Alphen Park, on April 5.
According to Danie Day, of Danie Day Private Investigators, a substantial reward is being offered to anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of the five suspects.
Previous information, received from the Benoni Police Station, stated that Wepener’s wife was walking to the garage when the suspects entered the property.
At the time, Benoni SAPS spokesperson Captain Nomsa Sekele said that the victim’s wife, who was with their children called out to him, as a warning of the imminent danger.
It was alleged that Wepener was on his way to the door, holding his personal firearm, when he was shot.
Day said that the independent investigation has thus far determined that a white Volkswagen Caddy (FJ 28 XJ GP) used by the suspects had a cloned number plate of another vehicle matching a similar description.
“Footage gathered from the CCTV cameras at the boomed entrance of Alpen Park and neighbouring properties indicates that the vehicle was seen driving through Alphen Park and was also seen in Lakefield two days prior to the fatal incident,” he said.
“From the footage, we have established that the suspects are opportunistic criminals merely seeking easy targets.”
He added that evidence indicates that before entering the Wepener home just before 14:30 that day, the suspects had gained access to a property in Amarella Street, Alphen Park, but fled shortly afterwards.
“Following what seemed to have been a botched attempted break-in, the vehicle was then seen driving down Homestead Street, while Ernst’s wife was in the process of parking her vehicle in the garage,” said Day.
“She was still in the car when the suspects pulled into the garage next to her and ordered her back into the house.
“Once inside, the wife and children were told to lay on the ground. In an attempt to safeguard his family, Ernst offered to open the safe.
“He alleged that the key for the safe was inside a cupboard and must have used this opportunity to draw his firearm. He was then shot and killed.”
Day further confirmed that three 9mm casings along with three blank bullets were found on the scene.
“Wepener’s .45 pistol, a Play Station 5 and keys to the vehicle were taken,” he said.
“The family is severely traumatised and we hope through thorough investigation these criminals are brought to book.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact Danie Day on 083 778 8560 or Juan Burger on 083 778 860.
All information will be treated confidentially.
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