Reporter – Ashley Rix
SALDANHA BAY:- It has been a year since this case first emerged, and we have all witnessed the events unfold. Now, as new statements come to light, it is crucial to analyze them critically while keeping the facts in perspective.
Discrepancies in the Investigation and Initial Response
The investigating officer (IO), who is not from the area, has made certain claims—some of which do not align with what we personally observed.
From the very beginning, gaps in the police response were evident.
-
Police resources were not readily available in the early stages of the investigation. Whether due to under staffing or a lack of urgency, delays in deploying essential search tools were apparent.
-
Gayton McKenzie and his team attempted to bridge these shortcomings by arranging sniffer dogs, a helicopter, and boats—none of which were initially present. These efforts were not acts of interference but an attempt to assist in a situation that urgently required more resources.
-
Despite these efforts, certain law enforcement officials reacted with hostility, at times displaying frustration rather than welcoming additional support.
The Role of Gayton McKenzie and the Allegations Against Him
Recently, allegations have surfaced regarding Minister Gayton McKenzie’s involvement, including two reported cases filed against him by Ayanda.
However, it is important to consider the broader context –
-
There are indications that Ayanda may have been influenced into filing these cases.
-
At no point did Gayton McKenzie or his team transport Ayanda or Renz to Langebaan or Cape Town.
-
The IO’s statement regarding this matter is incorrect—#Renz has confirmed that it was the police, not Gayton McKenzie, who transported them.
-
Gayton and his team were only involved in transporting Ayanda to the police station and had no further role in her movements.
These details are significant because they challenge the accuracy of some of the claims made in the investigation.
The Case Almost Went Cold – Until Pressure Was Applied
Without the persistent pressure from #Gayton, Oom Biza van die Kaap, and their team, there is a strong possibility that this case would have faded into obscurity.
-
Reports emerged that the search had been called off—only for Minister Bheki Cele to later deny that any such instruction had been issued.
-
Following this denial, there was a sudden increase in police resources, raising a critical question: Would this heightened response have happened without external pressure?
Political Agendas and the Truth We Must Uphold
Initially, this case was not political. However, the municipality appeared to turn it into a political issue—perhaps as a means of gaining public support.
While I won’t dwell on that, it is important to recognize how narratives can be shaped to serve different interests.
-
As expected, Gayton McKenzie’s name has now surfaced in recent witness testimonies. While this is not surprising, these claims must be examined carefully.
-
The IO is presenting the case from a SAPS perspective, and while that must be considered, facts must remain facts.
Final Thoughts – Stay Vigilant, Stay Critical
We must continue to watch, listen, and analyze everything with a critical mind. Those of us who were there, who witnessed the events firsthand, know the truth.
As this case progresses, different narratives will emerge, but it is essential to remain focused on the facts. The truth does not change—it remains constant, regardless of how some may attempt to distort it.
🔹 DISCLAIMER: These are my personal thoughts and opinions based on what I have seen, heard, and experienced. The information shared here is provided in an alleged context and should be understood as my viewpoint rather than absolute fact. Everyone is entitled to their perspective, and I encourage critical thinking and discernment as this situation continues to unfold.