![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2017/10/IMG_0295_44964_tn.jpg)
A second relative of the 63-year-old Gerhard Kotze – found buried in a shallow grave – appeared in the Randfontein Magistrates’ Court on Friday morning.
The relative appeared in court briefly where the case was postponed to Tuesday, 17 October in the Randfontein Magistrates’ Court.
On Thursday, 1 June, human remains were dug up from a shallow grave on a plot in Pelzvale. Forensic experts spent numerous hours exhuming the body, which was transported to the Roodepoort Government Mortuary for the postmortem. Evidence found on the scene suggested that the body was that of the 63-year-old man who was reported missing in that area on 28 April.
Initial Article: BREAKING NEWS: Human remains dug up from shallow grave
After DNA testing results were received by Investigating Officer Rupert van Zyl on Thursday, it was confirmed that the body is that of Gerhard Kotze, who was reported missing on 28 April 2017.
The Herald advised on Tuesday, 6 June, that the first close relative suspected of involvement in the case was arrested.
This 34-year-old suspect appeared briefly in the Randfontein Magistrates’ Court on charges of murder. However, the case was postponed for seven days for the State to continue its investigations. He then appeared in court again on Wednesday, 14 June, when he was denied bail. He has remained in custody ever since.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at randfonteinherald@caxton.co.za (please remember to include your contact details in the email) or phone us on 011 693 3671.
For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister newspaper websites
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages to let your voice be heard!