Investigating Officer Warrant Officer Xolile Kato firmly opposed bail for Gqeberha businessman Rob Evans (58) in today’s bail hearing at the Humansdorp Regional Court, citing gender-based violence (GBV) as a primary concern.
Evans faces multiple charges including murder, attempted murder, kidnapping, and defeating the ends of justice following the death of his girlfriend, Vanessa Van Rensburg (36), during the Easter weekend at Evans Oyster Bay holiday house.
“This case falls directly under the Domestic Violence Act. Gender-based violence is a serious challenge in our country, and victims are severely affected by the actions of perpetrators,” Kato testified. “The government is trying its best to protect GBV victims.”
During his testimony, Kato argued that the public is looking at the justice system to play its part in protecting GBV victims.
The court heard evidence suggesting a pattern of violent behavior by Evans. Kato referenced statements from multiple witnesses, including Evans’ own brother who allegedly acknowledged that Evans had “temperament issues” and described him as violent.
Kato further dug into the business relationship Evans had with the Old Grey restaurant owner Ronel van Eyck who provided a statement detailing previous incidents where Evans allegedly became aggressive and verbally abusive at a Crusaders rugby club event. This led van Eyck to close the restaurant that operated at Crusaders SAP Rugby Club that is allegedly financially backed by Evans.
“It’s been proven that he has a violent nature,” Kato testified. “Vanessa isn’t his only victim.”
The state also argued that Evans, whose business Algoa Plastics reportedly earns R6/R7 million annually, poses a significant flight risk despite his offer to pay R100,000 for bail.
“He has the means to be a flight risk because he has money. That’s enough to take him anywhere he wants to go,” said Kato.
Concerns about witness intimidation were raised after allegations that defense representatives had contacted state witnesses. “Many didn’t provide statements because of fear,” Kato stated. “It makes me wonder about the safety of the witnesses. The court has to protect them.”
The bail hearing continues tomorrow, June 4, with further cross-examination of the investigating officer by Evans’ attorneys.
