The disappearance and murder of 22-year-old Reuben Marsberg has shocked communities in Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal. After weeks of uncertainty, a suspect has appeared in court, while police investigations and DNA confirmation continue. This article explains what is confirmed so far, how the case unfolded, and what happens next.

What Happened to Reuben Marsberg

Reuben Marsberg was a 22-year-old diesel mechanic from Louis Trichardt, Limpopo. Those who knew him described him as hardworking, reliable, and deeply committed to his family.

Following the death of his father, Noel Marsberg, last year, Reuben reportedly assumed additional responsibilities within the household. According to his mother, Virginia Marsberg, he became a key support figure for his siblings and worked steadily to help the family remain stable.

Friends recall a young man who balanced long working hours with a quiet sense of humour and a love for the outdoors. His sudden disappearance, followed by developments in the murder investigation, has left many struggling to come to terms with the loss.

Also Read | SAPS Arrests Suspect in Reuben Marsberg Murder as DNA Tests Continue

Timeline of Reuben Marsberg’s Disappearance

Reuben Marsberg was officially reported missing on Thursday, 27 November.

On the evening before his disappearance, Reuben dropped off his younger brother, Brent, at his girlfriend’s home in the Levubu area. The brothers agreed that Reuben would return the following morning to fetch him.

When Brent tried to contact Reuben at around 08:00 the next day, his phone was switched off. Concern escalated quickly.

Brent arranged transport back to the farm where the brothers were staying. On arrival, there was no sign of Reuben. His 1999 Toyota Land Cruiser, a boat, and several personal belongings were missing. The house was also not locked, raising fears that Reuben may have been taken from the property.

Where Reuben Marsberg Was Last Seen

Following the report, family members, friends, and members of the public launched widespread search efforts. Missing person posters circulated on social media platforms, while appeals were shared across Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal.

Private security companies assisted alongside police, working through potential leads day and night. Reuben’s mother also personally searched areas around Levubu, holding onto hope that her son had been abducted and might still be alive.

As days passed without answers, the case drew increasing public attention.

Also Read | Reuben Marsberg Murder Case: Suspect Appears in Court as Family Speaks Out

Vehicle Recovery and Key Breakthroughs

A major development came on Sunday, 30 November, when Reuben’s Toyota Land Cruiser was found abandoned near Polokwane International Airport, roughly 100 kilometres south of Louis Trichardt.

Police confirmed that the vehicle had been partially stripped. This discovery shifted the investigation and intensified concerns that the disappearance involved serious criminal activity.

Despite the recovery of the vehicle, Reuben himself remained missing.

SAPS Investigation and Recovery of a Body

According to the South African Police Service, further investigations led officers to the Makhado area, where a severely decomposed body was found wrapped in a blanket near a correctional services facility.

Police stated that the remains showed evidence of a gunshot wound and that there was strong reason to believe the body could be that of the missing Reuben Marsberg. However, authorities stressed that DNA testing is required before the identity can be formally confirmed.

As part of the investigation, police recovered several items believed to belong to Marsberg, including a trailer, a boat, and a bull bar, from a suspect’s residence.

Suspect Arrest and Court Proceedings

24-year-old Duncan Gerhard Koekemoer was arrested in connection with the case and appeared in the Vuwani Magistrate’s Court earlier this week.

Duncan Gerhard Koekemoer faces charges including premeditated murder, house robbery, and possession of stolen property. During his court appearance, he was escorted into the courtroom in leg irons and responded briefly when asked if he understood the charges against him.

The case has been postponed to allow for further investigations, including forensic analysis and profiling.

Police have confirmed that a special task team from Polokwane has been assigned to support the Makhado SAPS in the investigation.

What the Police Have Confirmed So Far

According to the charge sheet presented in court, the state alleges that the suspect robbed and assaulted Reuben Marsberg at his residence in November.

Prosecutors claim that when Marsberg resisted, he was shot with a firearm. It is further alleged that the suspect then stole several items, including a PlayStation, a television, the Toyota Land Cruiser, a trailer, and a boat.

Police have cautioned that these allegations remain before the court and that investigations are ongoing.

Mother Speaks Out Amid Misinformation

In the days following the court appearance, Reuben’s mother, Virginia Marsberg, publicly appealed for accuracy after several social media posts circulated containing incorrect details.

She clarified that her son was 22 years old, not 30, and confirmed that he was taken from the house he shared with his brother in Levubu. She also stated that while older remains were found during the investigation, DNA testing is still required to confirm identity.

Virginia expressed distress over reports published without the family’s consent or police verification.

“Until we are 100 percent certain through DNA tests, we are still holding onto hope,” she said.

Court Day and a Family’s Grief

Virginia Marsberg attended court during the suspect’s appearance, describing the experience as deeply traumatic.

In a message shared publicly, she alleged that her son was shot while asleep and killed for the sake of a television and a PlayStation. She described the moment of facing the accused as one no parent should ever endure.

Her words captured both grief and disbelief, reflecting the emotional toll the case has taken on the family.

Community Reaction and Public Support

The case has drawn widespread reaction across South Africa. Messages of sympathy and anger have flooded social media, with many expressing shock at the alleged motive behind the crime.

Friends and community members described Reuben as kind, dependable, and supportive. Several recalled moments of generosity and humour, while others voiced frustration at violent crime targeting young people trying to build their lives.

Police and family members have urged the public to avoid speculation and allow the justice process to unfold.

Why DNA Confirmation Is Still Important

Despite strong investigative findings, police have confirmed that DNA testing remains essential before making a formal identification of the remains.

DNA analysis ensures legal certainty and protects the integrity of the case, especially as it moves through the court system. Until results are finalised, authorities and the family have refrained from issuing definitive statements.

What Happens Next in the Case?

The suspect is expected to return to court as investigations continue. Police are still gathering evidence and finalising forensic reports.

The Marsberg family has indicated that they are exploring options, including possible private DNA testing, pending discussions with authorities.

As the case proceeds, further updates are expected from SAPS and the courts.

A Family’s Request to Remember Reuben

Despite the pain, Virginia Marsberg has asked those who knew her son, and even those who did not, to share memories and messages to keep his name alive.

For the family, the focus now is on truth, dignity, and justice.

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