Ray van Rooy, Executive Mayor of the Bergrivier Municipality in the Western Cape, was taken in for questioning by police at his Piketberg residence on Wednesday afternoon following an intelligence-driven operation. Authorities uncovered a significant quantity of drugs and a round of ammunition at the premises, prompting an ongoing investigation.
Western Cape police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Malcolm Pojie confirmed the discovery, stating:
“A substantial quantity of drugs and a round of ammunition were discovered on the premises of a residence in Piketberg. An investigation into the discovery continues, and no one has been charged yet.”
The incident has sent shockwaves through the municipality, with officials pledging transparency while avoiding specifics due to the legal nature of the matter. In a statement, the municipality said:
“The municipality is awaiting further actions by the SAPS. As this is a legal matter, we are unable to provide further comment. The municipality remains committed to serving our community and ensuring the highest standards of conduct.”
The Democratic Alliance (DA), under whose banner Van Rooy serves, also weighed in. Party spokesperson Matthew Sims noted that the DA was made aware of a “possible arrest” earlier that day. Sims added that Van Rooy had denied knowledge of any wrongdoing or reason for the allegations.
The discovery has cast a shadow over the governance of Bergrivier Municipality, with the mayor’s role under scrutiny as the investigation unfolds. While no charges have been laid, the incident has raised concerns among local communities and political stakeholders about its implications for the municipality’s leadership and reputation.
Both the municipality and the DA have emphasized their commitment to due process and ethical governance, with local residents now waiting anxiously for further developments in the case.
