Carlos Rebelo, the 72-year-old man accused of abducting the six-year-old daughter of his former live-in domestic worker, has broken his silence, claiming the situation is misunderstood.
Story Summary:
- Carlos Rebelo, accused of abducting six-year-old Eva Tembo, has spoken out, denying the kidnapping.
- Susana Kennedy, Rebelo’s daughter, posted a viral plea, warning of his mental state and urging the public to help find the child.
- Eva’s mother worked for Rebelo for over 10 years and fears for her daughter’s safety.
Carlos Rebelo makes bizarre statements about alleged kidnapping
Rebelo, who has been on the run for three months with the child, Eva Tembo, reached out to News24 to defend his actions.
“Let it be known that this is not a kidnapping, and that I am not a kidnapper,” Rebelo stated.
“I am not asking for ransom. I am not disappearing with Eva.”
He further claimed that his intentions are to protect the girl’s well-being, adding:
“More than me, only God can care more for Eva’s well-being.”
Rebelo said he would return Eva under two conditions: if the High Court reviews a Children’s Court order from 12 July 2024, and if he receives free legal assistance to fight for custody of the child.
Susana Kennedy, a woman identifying herself as Rebelo’s biological daughter, posted an urgent plea on social media, warning the public about her father’s mental state.
Her posts, which went viral before being deleted, accused Rebelo of disturbing behaviour, including the kidnapping of Eva and an abusive relationship with her that allegedly began in her childhood.
“One of my worst nightmares has come true. This man is my biological father… He has kidnapped this six-year-old girl. Her name is Eva,” Kennedy wrote, urging South Africans to help locate the child.
She added that Eva had reportedly been sleeping in Rebelo’s bed since she was two, and she fears for the child’s safety.
Kennedy also shared details about the vehicle Rebelo was last seen driving, a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and requested any information about his whereabouts.
She expressed concerns that they might be hiding in Cape Town or even planning to flee to Mozambique.
Eva’s mother, Laura Nkhana, worked as a domestic helper for Rebelo for over a decade.
According to reports, Rebelo allegedly wanted to adopt Eva without Nkhana’s permission.
Nkhana, terrified of Rebelo, had confided that he often shouted at both her and Eva.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that the girl was last seen on 16 July 2024, and efforts to locate her are ongoing.
Police officer ZS Sithole, assigned to the case, confirmed contact with Kennedy, as the investigation intensifies to bring Eva home safely.