Two suspects to appear in court for 'express kidnapping' charge in Cape Town
Authorities have raised concern about 'express kidnappings', following the arrest of two people over the weekend.
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CAPE TOWN - A man and a woman are expected to appear in court on Monday in connection with a kidnapping incident in Cape Town over the weekend.
While officers were on patrol on Friday night, they received information about a hijacking where the suspects had kidnapped a victim, withdrew funds using her bank card and sold her phone.
She was released unharmed about four hours later.
Later that night, officials spotted the hijacked vehicle while patrolling the areas of Wynberg and Plumstead.
Following a short pursuit and a brief scuffle, the officers arrested the pair and found cash, a replica gas firearm, stolen clothing items and a knife.
The City of Cape Town's Safety and Security Mayco Member, JP Smith, said the incident is referred to "express kidnapping".
This is when victims are often held under duress and forced to maximize withdrawal limits and access to funds.
"The male suspect had just been released from Pollsmoor prison two weeks prior and has a lengthy criminal record. The suspects were detained at Diep River SAPS [South African Police Service] and are expected to appear in court on Monday."