Athlone is in shock after SPCA vet Natheem Jacobs, 27, was stabbed to death outside his Garlandale home early on Thursday March 2.
He had confronted a thief who was trying to steal the wheels off his wife’s car, according to Athlone police spokeswoman Sergeant Zita Norman.
“They got into a scuffle and he was stabbed several times. He died on his way to hospital. The investigation continues. No one was arrested, but we are following up on all leads,” Sergeant Norman said.
Dr Jacobs joined the Cape of Good Hope SPCA the day before his death, after completing his community service there and at the Wingfield Animal Health Centre.
He was buried at the Mowbray Muslim cemetery, in accordance with Muslim rites, on Thursday afternoon, from his Lady May Street home.
He had worked under the supervision of SPCA board member Dr Ayoub Banderker.
In a statement, the SPCA said Dr Jacobs had been a committed welfare veterinarian with a deep compassion for animals.
“His loss reverberates throughout the entire organisation. We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Imaan, as well as his parents, Zulyka and Ridwaan Jacobs, and hope they will find comfort in knowing that we will remain forever inspired by his passion for his work and compassion for animals.
“He will be remembered through every animal that comes through our doors, and his dedication to their welfare will keep reminding us why we can never give up the fight against animal cruelty.”
Sergeant Norman encouraged residents to “take their streets back” by being part of the neighbourhood watches.
“I believe the incident happened during load shedding. As sad as his murder is, I think it should remind us to be more neighbourly. We should not go out alone when we hear any activity outside our homes and especially during load shedding. Contact the police and your neighbours.”
