Riana Pretorius. (Photo: Facebook)
A man who may be connected to the kidnapping of a biokineticist from Gqeberha has already made his first court appearance and is expected to be able to apply for bail soon.
Riana Pretorius (30) left her workplace exactly a week ago kidnapped. although two suspects has already been arrested in connection with her disappearance, Pretorius is still missing.
The police also now refuse to disclose any further information in connection with the investigation.
Capt. Yolisa Mgolodela, spokeswoman for the Hawks, told Rhewal earlier this week that she could not share any further information about the case, as the investigation team “feared for Pretorius’s life”.
Luxolo Tyali, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), says one of the suspects already appeared in the Gqeberha Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
Xolisile Rawutini (40) is provisionally facing charges of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. However, there is no question of Pretorius’ kidnapping.
In addition, the second suspect in the case has reportedly still not appeared in court. It is unknown why this is the case.
According to Tyali, Rawutini will be back in court on Friday to apply for bail.
“He remains in police custody until then.”
Prayers for Pretorius’ safe release pour in daily on her Facebook page.
Carla Le Grange, Pretorius’ cousin, shared a prayer on Facebook and asked the Lord to guide her loved ones while the search for her continues.
“Father, please watch over our cousin Riana Pretorius. Keep and comfort her through this difficult time,” she writes.
Gr. Year 7 learners at Altona Primary School in Gqeberha also gathered on Thursday to pray for the safety and protection of Pretorius.
“We trust in the Lord to do a miracle,” the school wrote on Facebook.
Pretorius’ loved ones could not yet be reached for comment, but calls to respect her family’s privacy were made on social media.
