It is business as usual at Rynfield Drapers and Outfitters despite the investigations into the kidnapping of its owner, Mohammed Seedat (42), entering its sixth week.

A source close to the investigation has confirmed that Seedat’s July 23 kidnapping is being investigated by the Gauteng Provincial SAPS Task Team, but could not further elaborate on the matter.

“All possible leads are being followed up in an effort to safely locate the victim and bring him home to his family,” said the source.

It is alleged that six men entered the outlet at Rynfield Value Mall shortly after Seedat arrived at 09:20.

The suspects held the security guard, the store manager and the staff at gunpoint while one assailant went behind the counter to access the till, taking an undisclosed amount of money.

Seedat’s hands were tied behind his back, and he was forced into one of the getaway vehicles, described as a gunmetal grey Mercedes-Benz.

It was later confirmed as having false number plates.

Bolhuis
Private investigator Mike Bolhuis of Specialised Security Services (SSS) says that the kidnapping of prominent business people for financial gain has seen a slight decrease. This cannot be accurately confirmed.

“Over the past 12 months, we have seen an increase in arrests and successful extraction of victims from the clutches of kidnapping syndicates across South Africa,” said Bolhuis.

“The establishment of task teams and wider information sharing networks has proven effective, indicating a decrease in organised crime of this nature. Although statistics are painting a positive picture, one must bear in mind that numbers may be skewed due to matters not being reported to the SAPS.”

Bolhuis explained that due to a lack of confidence in law enforcement’s abilities, victims’ families often enlist the services of private investigators to assist in ransom negotiations, tracking and tracing.

“In cases such as these, reputable investigators wll furnish the SAPS with their findings to secure the arrest and prosecution of suspects.”

Speaking about Seedat’s kidnapping, Bolhuis said that it is not uncommon for victims to be held for an extended period of time.

“Situations like these are traumatic for the victim as well as their loved ones. We have found that victims may be held against their will for as long as it takes the perpetrators to extort the maximum amount of money from their intended targets,” said Bolhuis.

“There are various tiers in organised crime, but the end goal is always to increase negotiating power for maximum gain.”

Police are calling for anyone with information regarding Seedat’s whereabouts to contact CrimeStop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS mobile app.

Tip-offs and information can be shared anonymously and will be treated confidentially.

The Benoni City Times have attempted to make contact with Seedat’s family, but they have declined to comment.

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