Slain banker feared for his safety, life …‘robbed, raped & killed’

Iuze Mukube Walvis Bay resident Vernon John Gavin (53), who was allegedly murdered, raped and robbed in his residence on 30 December 2023, reportedly told relatives and close friends that he feared for his life. This emerged in court earlier this week during the cross-examination of a witness in the trial of Quanito van Vuuren (28) and Moses Sam (22). Van Vuuren and Sam face charges of murder, two counts of rape and robbery with aggravating circumstances in relation to the death of Gavin.

The statement surfaced during the cross-examination of State witness Natasha Muller, who was Gavin’s neighbour at the time. Muller’s evidence-in-chief comprised a text message she received from Gavin at the time, which stated, “I will see you in my dreams.” She found the text unusual, especially since it was in a manner and language that differed from their usual communication.