Video: Man accused of killing fitness influencer in eMalahleni back in court
Ricardo Spies' parents were overcome with emotion after the man charged with his murder outside a Corridor Hill restaurant was granted bail.
Tinus Oelofse, the man accused of fatally shooting Ricardo Spies, briefly appeared in the eMalahleni Magistrate’s Court today (June 26), where he was granted R5 000 bail, reports Witbank News.
The case has been postponed to July 2 to allow the court to confirm whether the firearm used in the shooting has been submitted for ballistic testing.
This follows an altercation last week in a parking lot after he allegedly bumped into a vehicle belonging to Spies’ brother, Romardo.
Defence attorney Koos Harmse submitted an affidavit and two video clip recordings to the court.
The public prosecutor David Chauke did not oppose bail.
The decision left Spies’ parents Lizana and Jaco in tears.
Online petition
Lizana started an online petition to gather 100 signatures to oppose Oelofse’s bail. This morning (June 26), the petition stood at just under 2 000 signatures.
“Granting bail in a case like this sends the wrong message and undermines the severity of the crime committed. We believe that justice must be served, and that starts with ensuring the accused remains in custody while the legal process unfolds. Your signature is more than just a name – it is a voice for Ricardo, for his loved ones, and for a safer community,” was the message on the petition.
“I do not have answers. Nearly 2 000 people signed the petition and still he gets bail. How does the justice system work? A man accused of rape was not granted bail in the same court earlier. The man who shot my son gets to pay R5 000 and walks out. How does this work?” Lizana asked.
Condolences
Spies was a former learner at Hoërskool Generaal Hertzog.
“We extend our sincerest condolences to the Spies family, friends, and all who knew and loved Ricardo. May you find strength, comfort, and peace in the cherished memories you shared with him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of grief. May Ricardo’s memory lives on in the hearts of all whose lives he touched.”
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