Joy and jubilation erupted outside Rynfield Drapers and Outfitters in Pretoria Road this morning (September 4) as staff celebrated the safe return of their employer, Mohammed Seedat (42), who was kidnapped from the business six weeks ago.

Seedat was reunited with his family following his rescue by police in the early hours of the morning (September 4).

SAPS national spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed that Seedat was found in a shack in Alexandra shortly after midnight, 42 days after his kidnapping, following an armed robbery at the store on July 23.

His rescue came just hours after a Mozambiquan national known as ‘Dollarman,’ an alleged kidnapping kingpin wanted in both South Africa and Mozambique, was shot and killed during a confrontation with police on the R21 in Kempton Park last night (September 3).

“He is on SERNIC, which is Mozambique’s wanted persons database, where he was sought for several kidnapping-for-ransom cases.

“Locally, he has been linked to at least five kidnapping-for-ransom cases, as well as other criminal cases, including house break-in, hijacking and possession of unlicensed firearms,” said Mathe.

“All glory be to God Almighty for the safe return of Mohammed,” said a representative of the family, who wished to remain anonymous.

“As the Rynfield Drapers family, we are overjoyed that he has been safely returned to us. The past six weeks have been incredibly difficult but, we are grateful that he is unscathed and back with his family, where he belongs.”

Grinning from ear to ear, Cornet Venter of Suki se Hoekie Koffie Winkel, which operates from Rynfield Value Mall, said she jumped for joy when she received a message confirming Seedat’s rescue.

“Mohammed has been in our constant prayers. I cannot express how happy I am that he has been found,” she said.

Wiping tears from his eyes, Diaan Wolmerhans, a car guard at the centre, said Seedat’s kidnapping was an emotional roller-coaster ride.

“Mohammed and his family are my second family. I was overcome with guilt following his kidnapping,” he said.

“Everything happened so fast that day, and I could not do anything to help him. I am so incredibly happy that the police did not give up and worked hard to find him.”

Benoni CPF chairperson Dr Reza Patel commended the SAPS anti-kidnapping task team as well as private security companies’ unwavering commitment in their search for Seedat.

“Support initiatives between the SAPS and the private sector have not only led to a community stalwart being safely returned, but thorough investigation has led to a menace to society being swiftly dealt with,” he said.

“I am confident that further investigations will see many more involved in this criminal syndicate being brought to justice and that their reign of terror will come to an end.”

Ward 27 Clr Lornette Joseph echoed Patel’s sentiments, saying that she is relieved that the beloved member of the Rynfield community has been found.

“I applaud the efforts of all who were involved in investigating the matter, tirelessly following up on leads and information. We will continue to hold Mohammed and his family in our thoughts, praying that they find healing following this harrowing ordeal.”

The Rynfield Drapers family thanked the community for their outpouring of love and care.

“We cannot begin to express our sincere gratitude to the community. Your prayers, well-wishes and concern have touched us deeply, and for that we are eternally grateful.”

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