Update

GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - The murder of Julia Lukas (63) during a house robbery at her Santaville residence turned out to be much crueller than initial police statements described.

The suspect, Morné Williams (34), has since admitted to raping the victim. It has been confirmed by a family member that Lukas was Williams’ aunt.

Williams broke into Lukas’ home on Circle Drive, either late 2 November or in the early hours of 3 November, with the intent to commit a robbery. Her body was found wrapped in a blanket outside the home at 5.30am on 3 November. Although initial reports said she had no visible injuries, facial wounds have since been discovered.

Initially, it was said that stolen items were found in Williams' possession at the time of his arrest, but local police spokesperson, Captain Bradley Rawlinson, admitted that no stolen items were found. "The police did, however, find him wearing bloodstained clothes.”

Williams made a brief appearance in court on Monday. The case was postponed to Monday 11 November for further investigation. Williams remains in custody.

Read a previous article: Woman (63) found dead in Santaville after robbery at her home

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