Missing UCT student was 'bludgeoned with a scale' in Post Office

A 42-year-old man arrested in connection with the disappearance of UCT student Uyinene Mrwetyana faced charges of rape, murder and defeating the ends of justice on Monday.

Mrwetyana disappeared more than a week ago. Three private investigators joined police in an extensive search for the first-year film and media student along with distraught friends and students. 

Shocked friends attending the case at the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court discovered that the suspect, who cannot be named as he must still attend an identity parade, was an employee at a Post Office - one of the places she was last seen alive.

The state alleged that the man had bludgeoned Mrwetyana with a scale inside the Post Office. She had allegedly fought back but was knocked unconscious.

He later allegedly later made a confession and indicated where a body was buried.

During court proceedings, the suspect turned around to face the crowd and grinned slightly.

People in the public gallery called him a "pig".

The case was postponed to November 5.

This is a developing story.