Search for NWest DA leader in Nepal called off

The light aircraft that she was travelling in went missing on 8 October. The alarm was raised after the plane, with only a pilot and the DA North West deputy leader on board failed to return on schedule after a sightseeing trip.

On Wednesday DA spokesperson Nicolize van Der Walt said the search for Petro Nel had been called off and “her husband JC [Nel] and two sons John J and Juan are on their way back to South Africa. They are expected back in the country by tonight”.

“They used their last few days in Nepal to commemorate the life of an extraordinary woman and took the opportunity to say goodbye to her,” said Van Der Walt.

“The family, as well as Petro’s mother and sister Wilma are going through an emotional time and we ask people to respect their privacy and rather take the opportunity to honour Petro and the excellent work she has done in her community.”

Van Der Walt said when and if the family was ready, an event to commemorate her life would be held where everybody could attend and show their love and respect for Petro.

“We hope such an event will bring a bit of closure and comfort. No date is set yet and we respect the family’s wish to privacy in the matter. Tomorrow [Thursday] it is four weeks since she went missing and our hearts and prayers are with her and her loved ones. This event has changed our lives forever and she will never be forgotten,” said Van Der Walt.

She said the DA in North West would light candles to honour her dedication and hard work towards to party at its provincial executive council on Monday.

Van Der Walt said many people have supported the family through prayers since Petro was reported missing last month.

She served as a DA ward councillor in the Matlosana municipality. She was elected DA North West deputy leader on May 25, at the provincial congress in Hartbeespoort Dam near Brits. - ANA

(File photo: Facebook)