Was Mariana Kotze kidnapped? Inside the twists surrounding ‘Kokkedoor’ star’s mysterious disappearance

The intense search for reality TV personality Mariana Kotze has officially ended—but the circumstances surrounding her disappearance have only deepened the mystery. Authorities have confirmed that the former Kokkedoor season three contestant has been found alive and physically unharmed in Kempton Park, yet police say the case remains under active investigation due to conflicting evidence.

Mpumalanga police confirmed on Wednesday, February 4, that Kotze had been traced after nearly 48 hours of uncertainty that sparked national concern and widespread media attention. While her location has now been established, investigators say serious questions still linger about what truly happened.

Police Confirm Discovery, But Questions Remain

Speaking on the matter, Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane explained that although Kotze has been located safely, the investigation is far from concluded.

According to Ndubane, Kotze had initially been reported as the victim of a hijacking and kidnapping, but newly surfaced evidence appears to contradict that narrative. Surveillance footage from a shopping centre has since shown Kotze walking alone, carrying luggage, with no visible signs of distress or coercion.

Police say they are now working to piece together the full sequence of events and determine whether a crime was committed or if the situation was misrepresented.

How the Case Unfolded

The ordeal began on Monday, February 2, when Kotze left her home in Marloth Park to go grocery shopping. She was reportedly driving her silver Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, heading toward Komatipoort.

Concern escalated when her husband, Boland Kotze, allegedly received a threatening WhatsApp voice message from an unknown number. The caller reportedly warned him not to block or freeze their bank accounts. Boland later stated that he believed he could hear his wife’s voice in the background, adding to fears that she had been forcibly taken.

By Tuesday, February 3, police had classified the matter as a high-risk kidnapping case. The seriousness of the situation prompted authorities to request a media blackout, citing sensitive negotiations and the potential risk to Kotze’s life.

Abandoned Car and Viral CCTV Footage

On Wednesday morning, the case took a dramatic turn when Kotze’s vehicle was found abandoned at the Sonpark Boulevard shopping centre in Mbombela (formerly Nelspruit). Initial expectations pointed to a possible crime scene.

However, those assumptions were quickly challenged when CCTV footage from the area surfaced and began circulating online. The video shows the 67-year-old exiting the vehicle alone, calmly retrieving two large travel bags, and walking away without assistance.

The footage, which has since gone viral, sparked widespread debate and confusion, as it appeared inconsistent with claims of a violent hijacking or forced abduction.

A Case That Refuses to Close

Despite the footage, police have not ruled out criminal activity. Authorities say they must now reconcile the alleged hijacking report, the threatening message received by Kotze’s husband, and the surveillance evidence that seems to suggest otherwise.

Notably, investigators confirmed that no money was withdrawn from the couple’s bank accounts, further complicating the alleged extortion angle.

While Jacaranda FM Newswatch previously confirmed that Kotze was missing during the early stages of the investigation, her discovery in Kempton Park has shifted the focus from a rescue operation to a deeper inquiry into what truly transpired during the hours she was unaccounted for.

Public Reaction and Next Steps

The unfolding story has captured public attention across South Africa, with many expressing relief that Kotze was found safe, while others question how such a dramatic disappearance could unravel so unexpectedly.

Police say they will continue investigating all aspects of the case, including possible false reporting, third-party involvement, or other undisclosed factors. For now, while Mariana Kotze has been found, the truth behind her disappearance remains unresolved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Has Mariana Kotze been found?
Yes, she was located in Kempton Park and is reportedly safe.

Was Mariana Kotze kidnapped?
Police are still investigating. Initial reports suggested a kidnapping, but CCTV footage has raised doubts.

Why did police request a media blackout?
The case was initially treated as a high-risk kidnapping requiring sensitive negotiations.

What did the CCTV footage show?
The footage showed Kotze exiting her vehicle alone with luggage, contradicting claims of forced abduction.

Is the case closed?
No. Police have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing.