14/11/2025
This one hit hard.... Rest in peace, Rachel Otte ... ❤️🙏🏼
The quiet seaside town of Fish Hoek is in shock following the murder of 22-year-old Rachel Otte.
Rachel Otte was a photographic and digital designer who hailed from the Eastern Cape.
Her body was tragically discovered on the morning of November 7, inside the cottage she was renting on Echo Road.
Police are currently investigating her death as a murder connected to a house break-in and robbery.
The incident has deeply affected the close-knit community, shattering the long-held perception of Fish Hoek as one of South Africa's safest towns. A resident expressed the fear, noting that such events "never happen in our area".
In response to the growing unease, local authorities have issued advisories:
SAPS (South African Police Service) confirmed they are investigating the circumstances of Otte's death, though "No arrests have been made at this stage".
SAPS has urged residents to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings, especially when arriving home or hiking. They also advised taking extra precautions around potential entry points and remaining calm during a home invasion.
Andre Blom, the Fish Hoek CPF (Community Policing Forum) chairperson, appealed to the community to stay alert while avoiding panic and speculation.
The CPF also reminded residents to report any suspicious activity and refrain from sharing unverified information that could hinder the investigation or cause distress to the victim's family and friends.
The community is asked to respect the ongoing investigation and the privacy of Rachel Otte's family during this difficult time.
