YouTuber's family speaks on alleged kidnapping, abuse

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Simthande Myeza’s family has broken their silence about the YouTuber’s alleged kidnapping at gunpoint and abuse on Tuesday, 17 June. The family claims that kidnappers abducted Myeza while he was travelling in an e-hailing vehicle in Durban.

They allege that while en route, Myeza realised the car was taking a strange path and requested that the driver make a U-turn. As a result, the driver allegedly became agitated and stopped the car. Thereafter, two others approached them and held Myeza at gunpoint.

In a statement released by the family, they claimed that one man blindfolded the YouTuber while the other tied his hands. This was before taking him to an unknown location. They further claim that the kidnappers accessed Myeza’s phone and cleaned his bank account.

“Upon realising who he was, they went on to make phone calls to his family members, colleagues and friends and demanded a ransom. When they got the money, they stripped him off his clothes and took pictures and videos of him while forcing him to perform despicable acts,” said family spokesperson, Lomsongaka Myeza.

YOUTUBER BACK WITH FAMILY FOLLOWING HARROWING INCIDENT

The family also alleges that the kidnappers requested another ride for Myeza after asking him for his residential address. They also claim that the men said they would come after the YouTuber and his family should he ‘do or say anything stupid’.

Myeza remains in a safe place, surrounded by family and friends. The e-hailing company has been contacted for comment.

Arrive Alive emphasises that new safety features are constantly being developed and enhanced to better protect passengers. The organisation urges users to share their trip details and estimated time of arrival with trusted family or friends. This is to ensure someone is aware of their whereabouts. Passengers are also encouraged to check the driver’s rating and profile before starting any journey.