Businessman killed on farm
28/02/2007 15:06  - (SA)  

Johannesburg - A 58-year-old Vereeniging florist was stabbed to death at his home on a Meyerton farm, Vaal Rand police said on Wednesday.

Inspector Trudie Wilken said Willie Slabbert was found lying on the kitchen floor with several stab wounds to the neck, shoulder and chest around 18:00 on Tuesday.

Wilken said it appeared that forced entry was gained through a dining room window and that Slabbert was overpowered and killed inside his house.

A Bantam bakkie was stolen, but was later found overturned.

Wilken said Slabbert's body was discovered by a couple who had gone to meet him to discuss wedding arrangements.

When Slabbert did not arrive for the appointment at the chapel on his farm, the couple went to his home and discovered his body.

Slabbert was a "well-known, beloved" florist in the Vaal Triangle area, said Wilken.

No arrests have been made and police are investigating cases of murder, house robbery and theft of a motor vehicle.

Anyone with information could contact Inspector Gerhard Cloete at the Meyerton police station on 016-362 0126.