Residents and family members gathered outside the Somerset West Magistrate’s Court on 14 October 2026 to oppose bail for Willem van der Westhuizen, accused of setting his dogs on 14-year-old Christiano Jansen and friends near Broadlands Manor in Sir Lowry’s Pass.
Van der Westhuizen faces charges of attempted murder related to the incident on 6 October, when the dogs allegedly mauled Christiano, leaving him with severe injuries to his head, face and legs. He is also charged with assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm following a separate dog attack on 4 October involving the same dogs.
According to Sergeant David Stimelo, the investigating officer, Christiano and six friends were near a farm dam when Van der Westhuizen appeared and allegedly urged his dogs to chase them. “One of the boys said he heard how the accused said that the dogs must chase them,” Stimelo told court.
Emergency services, including City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue crews from Sir Lowry’s Pass, responded to the attack shortly after 18:30 on 7 October. The teenager was transported to hospital in critical condition just after 19:00 and remains at Tygerberg Hospital receiving treatment following surgery for brain bleeding and facial fractures.
Warrant Officer Suzan Jantjies from SAPS Western Cape confirmed Van der Westhuizen’s arrest on 12 October and that the investigation covers both attempted murder and grievous bodily harm charges.
The dogs were reportedly removed from the property after a follow-up inspection but community members remain uneasy. Local resident Allen Arendse said, “We want clarity on where the dogs went,” reflecting ongoing public concern about safety.
The bail hearing was postponed to 16 October, with Christiano’s father expected to testify. The case highlights serious questions about animal control and community safety in the Sir Lowry’s Pass area.