A young man from Delft has tragically died after falling from a moving cooldrink delivery truck, amidst allegations that he and a group were attempting to steal drinks. The incident, which occurred on 28 May, has highlighted the ongoing problem of youths hanging off the back of delivery vehicles in the area, often in an attempt to pilfer food and other items.
The deceased has been identified as Aiden Langenhoven, a student at Roosendal High in Delft. According to Francois de Bruin, the public relations officer for the Delft Community Policing Forum (CPF), the incident took place at the corner of Voorbrug and Delft Main Roads.
De Bruin stated that the CPF could confirm the incident and that it is believed Langenhoven and others were attempting to take cool drinks from the delivery truck. He explained that this type of activity is unfortunately common at specific hotspots along Delft Main Road, where youths are allegedly exploited by hardened criminals.
"Langenhoven attended Roosendal High in Delft and it is believed that there were attempts to take cool drinks off a delivery truck as was and still is unfortunately the case at these hotspots in Delft Main Road where these kids are being used doing the bidding of hardened criminals," said de Bruin.
The CPF spokesperson acknowledged the challenges faced by law enforcement and community watch groups in addressing the issue. "Neighbourhood watch (NHW), SAPS, the community and CPF are at our wits end and we concede it’s really a problem," de Bruin admitted.
However, he also commended the neighbourhood watch groups for their efforts in identifying the times when these activities are most prevalent. De Bruin urged motorists to avoid leaving valuables in open bakkies whenever possible, to deter potential theft.
Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk confirmed that the circumstances surrounding the incident, which occurred around 12 noon, are under investigation. Van Wyk stated that a culpable homicide case has been opened, but no arrests have been made at this stage.
"A culpable homicide case was opened for investigation. No arrest as yet," Van Wyk confirmed.
Authorities are appealing to anyone with information about the incident to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or to use the MySAPS app.
The tragic death of Langenhoven has sparked varied reactions on social media. Some users have commented that the youths involved in these activities are aware of the risks and that such an incident was almost inevitable.
However, a woman identifying herself as Langenhoven's girlfriend has urged people not to judge him without understanding his circumstances.
In a Facebook post, she wrote: "Yeah right, what he did was wrong and yes we all talked to him about it, but no one understood what he was actually going through. So please people before judging, try to see if you can find his side of the story out."
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