The bail application of prominent Gqeberha businessman Rob Evans entered its third day today in the Humansdorp Regional Court, where he stands accused of murdering his girlfriend, Vanessa van Rensburg.
Van Rensburg’s body was discovered in Evans’ Oyster Bay holiday home on Easter Sunday. The court heard that the two had been in a relationship that began while Evans was still married. He later moved out in 2023, but the affair continued.
Evans Claims Van Rensburg Was Ill Before Death
Taking the stand on Tuesday, Evans argued that Van Rensburg had been suffering from respiratory issues in the weeks leading up to her death.
“For the two weeks before Oyster Bay, she was very sick—coughing terribly and complaining about her lungs being sore,” Evans testified. He also claimed she had rib pain, which he attributed to “play wrestling” with her children, and that she had dismissed seeking medical attention.
State Challenges Evans’ Bail Arguments
Prosecutor Bianca Burger cross-examined Evans, accusing him of misleading the court in his affidavit regarding the potential collapse of his business, Algoa Plastics, if he remained in custody.
“What you’ve said now contradicts your affidavit,” Burger stated, pointing out inconsistencies in his claims about financial risks. Evans eventually conceded that his brother could manage the business in his absence, admitting an error in his affidavit that his lawyer was supposed to correct.
Case Adjourned, Cross-Examination to Continue
The state will resume its cross-examination when court reconvenes on Wednesday. Evans remains in custody as the bail hearing continues.
