Micaylin murder: Accused abandons bail application

Update Video

GEORGE NEWS AND VIDEO - In a shocking turn of events, Elroy Uithaler (41), one of the accused in the murder of Micaylin Whites (22) from Parkdene in George, now also faces a rape charge - allegedly involving a minor.

Uithaler made his first appearance on the unrelated rape charge in the George Magistrate's court this morning before appearing with his co-accused, his brother, Lawrence Richards (43), for Micaylin's murder. Uithaler abandoned his bail application.

Family members of Micaylin and supporters packed the courtroom this morning and a petition with almost 2 800 signatures asking that the men be denied bail, was submitted to the court.

Micaylin's body was found on 20 July along the N2 highway near Pacaltsdorp.

Both accused left courtroom smiling as police escorted them, fueling the community's outrage and anger. "Het jy gesien hoe smile hulle? Dis siek," a woman said outside the court.

Family members of Micaylin also condemned the accused's lighthearted attitude and inappropriate smiles but told George Herald they are relieved that they will remain behind bars, stressing that no woman is safe if the brothers were to be released.

Both men will be back in court on 18 September.