SECUNDA – An art collection worth R2,8 –million was stolen from a local collector’s home on the weekend of 7 August. The collector, who wants to remain anonymous out of fear that his identity will lure other burglars to his home, was away for the weekend when the burglars broke into his house. According to Capt Gerhard Elmes, spokesman for Secunda Police Station, the thieves tampered with the electricity supply to the house which then deactivated the security alarm. “The thieves removed the 44 paintings from their frames before carrying the artwork from the house” he said. “They also stole state-of-the-art electric appliances such as a genuine Jamie Oliver frying pan and various Russell Hobbs products, and bedding. “The total value of the stolen goods amounts to almost R3-million,” explained Capt Elmes.
The stolen paintings are the original works of famous and well-known South African artists. The most expensive pieces were painted by Marie Vermeulen-Breedt and Danie Smith worth R280 000 each. The collection include more pieces from these artists, as well as works by Adriaan Boshoff Jr, Jaco van Schalkwyk, Frans Claerhout, Pieter van Blommenstein, Tony de Freitas, Eric Sher, Nasser Zadeh Jeffrey Jason, Christiaan Diedericks, Stefan Ampenberger and Iris Ampenberger. Anyone with information, can contact W/O Marietha Wright at 82 856 9322.
