Three Zimbabweans allegedly demanded a R5 million ransom after kidnapping a Cape Town man. The suspects appeared in the Stellenbosch Regional Court on Monday.
According to the police, officers arrested suspects Luckmore Tawanda Muzhira, Takudzwa Trust Nzounhenda, and Itai Elvis Takawira, aged 28, 35, and 39, on Friday. The arrest took place during a multi-disciplinary intelligence-led operation.
The operation involved the Hawks, the Directorate of Priority Crime Investigation, and the Police’s Provincial Organised Crime, Hostage Negotiation Team (HNT), and Boland K9 Unit.
The suspects face charges of assault, extortion, robbery, and kidnapping. The court has postponed the case to 14 March for a formal bail application.
Kidnapping, Ransom Demand, and Threats
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Siyabulela Vukubi revealed that the victim visited a shop in Stellenbosch last Thursday. However, they did not return home. His family later received a ransom demand for millions of rands. They also received a disturbing video showing the victim tied up and blindfolded.
“It was reported that the family received a WhatsApp message whereby the sender stated that he knew the whereabouts of the victim and demanded R100 000 in exchange for his location,” Vukubi explained.
“The sender further claimed to be a middleman, stating that the actual kidnappers were demanding R5 million but that he personally needed R100 000, fearing for the victim’s life. On the same day, the victim’s brother received another WhatsApp message containing a video showing the victim with his hands tied and eyes blindfolded. Further threatening messages followed, warning that the victim would be killed.”
Swift Police Action Leads to Rescue
Police acted swiftly, launching a meticulous investigation that led to the identification of two suspected vehicles on February 28. The Boland K9 Unit intercepted a black VW near Stellenbosch. Inside the vehicle, officers found the victim and successfully rescued them.
The victim was taken to the hospital for medical examination, having sustained serious head injuries but remaining in stable condition. Authorities commended the swift operation that led to his safe recovery and the arrest of the suspects.
Growing Concerns Over Kidnappings
The case has raised concerns about the rise in ransom-related kidnappings. Authorities urge the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities immediately. Investigations into the incident continue as law enforcement cracks down on syndicates involved in violent crimes.
What are your views on kidnappings in South Africa?
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