Festival blocked ‘Driftwood Killer’ murder accused over ‘aggressive behaviour’

Flowers and placards are laid outside the Plettenberg Bay Magistrate’s Court in memory of slain former detective Anneke “Nicky” van Heerden The man accused of murdering former detectiveAnneke “Nicky” van Heerdenhad been blocked from attending the Summer Solstice Festival because of what organisers described as his “aggressive behaviour”. WhatsApp messages seen byIOLshow organisers informing Bevan van Druten in November last year that he was not allowed to attend the event. The Summer Solstice Festival is an annual gathering held in December at a Garden Route well-being sanctuary.

The event focuses on spirituality, music, healing practices and alternative wellness activities to mark the longest day of the year. In the messages, organisers told Van Druten, 53, that he would not be permitted to attend the upcoming festival. “After much reflection, and having considered all the sensitivities, we respectfully request that you don’t attend our Summer Solstice gathering this year.

“There are a number of females who do not feel safe with you around and, as the primary space holders, we have to show care towards them.” About two months later, 54-year-old Van Heerden’s battered and bruised body was found on a sand dune along Keurbooms Beach in Plettenberg Bay on January 18. Van Drutenwas arrested the next morning after handing himself over to police.