Businessman kidnapped in Eastern Cape rescued
Police said an intelligence-led operation led to the arrest of four people – including two South Africans and two Pakistani nationals – for the kidnapping.
Picture: @SAPoliceService/X
JOHANNESBURG - A month after his kidnapping in the Eastern Cape, a 55-year-old businessman has been rescued more than 800 kilometres away from home.
Police said an intelligence-led operation led to the arrest of four people – including two South Africans and two Pakistani nationals – for the kidnapping.
According to a preliminary report, the victim was kidnapped in Graaff-Reinet in February by a group of individuals who introduced themselves to the victim as immigration officials.
The victim allegedly accompanied the group to the nearest police station but never returned home.
The alleged kidnappers later demanded a ransom from the businessman’s family to secure his release.
Police spokesperson Amanda van Wyk said one of the suspects was nabbed in Killarney, north of Johannesburg, where an unlicensed firearm was also confiscated.
“This suspect led the team to the location of the victim in Evaton, where two more kidnappers were arrested. Further investigation resulted in the arrest of a fourth kidnapper in Benoni.
“A vehicle which was used in the commission of the crime was also seized. The four suspects are expected to appear before a magistrates court soon, while further investigations continue.”