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Kidnapping victim safe following high-speed chase

“The victim claimed he was abducted outside his home.”

An alleged kidnapping victim was rescued from his abductors’ clutches following a dramatic chase through the streets of Benoni on May 31.

According to EMPD spokesperson, Chief Superintendent Kelebogile Thepa, patrolling EMPD Intervention Unit officers noticed a suspicious-looking white Mercedes-Benz leaving an open field along New Modder Road, with five male occupants.

“Attempts to bring the vehicle to a stop failed, and a high-speed chase ensued,” she said.

“During the chase, the driver of the vehicle sped through traffic lights as well as stop signs at times, driving against oncoming traffic in one-way streets, placing motorists and pedestrians at risk.”

The pursuit ended when the driver lost control of the vehicle at the corner of Woburn Avenue and Swan Street, crashing into a stormwater drain.


Man sitting on the pavement with an emoji masking his identity.
A 34-year-old man was arrested on charges of kidnapping, possession of an unlicensed firearm as well as reckless and negligent driving. Photo: EMPD

Three occupants fled on foot, while the 34-year-old driver and one passenger were apprehended.

“Investigations revealed that one of the occupants was a kidnapping victim. He was allegedly abducted at gunpoint from his residence, assaulted and forced into the vehicle against his will,” said Thepa.

“A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a black 9mm firearm, with the serial number filed off, concealed beneath the driver’s seat, as well as nine bank cards from various financial institutions.”

The victim was treated on the scene and taken to a local hospital for further treatment.

The suspect was detained at the Benoni Police Station on charges of kidnapping, possession of an unlicensed firearm, as well as reckless and negligent driving.

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Jani de Beer

Jani went from working as a student intern for the Boksburg Advertiser to being employed as a junior journalist in 2004. Taking time out to start a family, she returned to the Caxton family in 2022 as senior journalist for the Benoni City Times. Her passion is telling her community's stories.

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