GQEBERHA | WAS SOMEONE CLOSE TO RIANA PRETORIUS ARRESTED FOR HER ABDUCTION?

There are currently a lot of posts doing the rounds on social media that someone close to Riana Pretorius has been arrested for his alleged involvement in her kidnapping.

PE Express is aware of these allegations, but it could not be confirmed by police.

Colonel Priscilla Naidu, police spokesperson, referred all queries to the Hawks, who are currently investigating the case.

When Hawks spokesperson, Capt. Yolisa Mgolodela, was approached for comment, she said she is not aware of any arrest.

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"Not to my knowledge. All my investigating officers were concerned about (was the) safe return (of Pretorius). Other nitty grities (sic) beyond remain with journalists, as per their mandate," Mgolodela said.

She added that they cannot release any further information for the "safety of the victim".

"Any other info will not come from us," she told the PE Express.

Pretorius was abducted on March 16 outside the Newton Medical Centre in Newton Park where she works. A ransom demand of R2 million was made. She was returned safe to her family on Friday, March 24 during the early hours of the morning.

Two of the three suspects were arrested and the getaway vehicle impounded by police but the second suspect was reportedly later released as it turned out to allegedly be the wrong person. When asked to confirm if a wrong person was arrested, Mgolodela said that she did not want to confuse people and would rather send a detailed statement to the media after speaking to the team of investigators as the day progresses.

The first suspect in the kidnapping case, Xolisile Rawutini, made his second appearance in the Gqeberha Magistrate's Court yesterday, March 24 to apply for bail.

However, his case was postponed to April 5 for a formal bail application. He will remain in custody until this time. The state has indicated that it will be opposing bail.

A prayer meeting was held at the same location on March 19 where loved ones gathered with candles to pray for Pretorius's safe return.

Pretorius was missing for almost eight days.

NEWS24