A Plettenberg Bay artist accused of killing former police detective Nicky van Heerden is now also under intense scrutiny after multiple women said they previously sought legal protection from him.

Bevan van Druten, 53, appeared in the Plettenberg Bay Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, formally charged with Van Heerden’s murder. Prosecutors said the case is being treated as femicide.

What is Known About the Keurbooms Beach Killing

Van Heerden, 54, was found dead on Keurbooms Beach on Sunday night in the Rivertides area. A bakkie believed to belong to Van Druten was found near her body. A police spokesperson said she had multiple injuries.

Family members said Van Heerden had recently met Van Druten and introduced him to some relatives on Saturday, a day before her body was discovered.

Six Women Say They Filed for Protection

At least six women have come forward to say they obtained protection orders against Van Druten in previous years. Copies of court paperwork describe allegations of intimidation, harassment and threats, with complainants saying they feared for their safety.

In one 2023 matter in the Knysna Magistrate’s Court, an interim order was granted first, then later made final after the court considered evidence. Another case involved an order under the Protection from Harassment Act, followed by a warrant of arrest after a complainant reported a breach.

Women who spoke publicly described him as aggressive and boundary-crossing, with one alleging she was strangled and threatened with being left in isolated areas.

What Happens Next in Court

The National Prosecuting Authority said Van Druten will remain in custody until his next court appearance on Monday. Prosecutors indicated they will oppose bail and said he will be referred to the district surgeon for observation.

Some women have said they believe the killing may have been preventable if earlier protection orders were taken more seriously, adding fresh pressure on how these orders are enforced when breaches are reported.