Through the coordinated efforts of members of the Civilian Crime Intelligence Network (CCIN), founded and developed by Benoni CPF chairperson Dr Reza Patel, an attempted kidnapping was foiled in Beyers Park on August 26.

The wheels of the multi-disciplinary operation were set in motion following a report from a patrolling Boksburg CPF member about a suspicious Mercedes-Benz operating in Beyers Park.

The information was immediately circulated through the network, which includes SAPS and private security companies, with Legendary Guardians Exclusive Protection (LGEP) responding.

“At the time, a LGEP officer was travelling via a ride-sharing service provider to collect his response vehicle,” said Patel.

“Knowing that time was of the essence, the officer diverted the driver to the last known location of the vehicle.

“Upon arrival, the Mercedes-Benz, along with a white Toyota Hilux, had boxed in the driver of a Volkswagen Polo. Eight balaclava-clad suspects, armed with handguns and rifles, had attempted to kidnap the driver of the Polo.”

With the arrival of the LGEP officer, the suspects allegedly turned their attention to him and fired shots, allowing the victim to flee unharmed.

The suspects fled the scene, prompting a wider search using the CCIN network.

“Through the further circulation of information, camera intelligence detected the suspected Mercedes-Benz travelling towards Actonville,” said Patel.

“The family of the alleged kidnapping victim further shared information that the vehicle was seen at the Actonville Hostels, an area notoriously connected to criminal activities.”

Operational units, including LGEP, A-TAC, NoJack Vehicle Tracking, SAPS and Benoni CPF members, converged on the area, initiating a high-density operation in pursuit of the suspects.

“Thanks to their swift reaction, one suspect was arrested and an unlicensed firearm was recovered,” said Patel.

“The Mercedes-Benz used during the kidnapping attempt was also recovered, while a BMW connected to the developing investigation was also found. Both vehicles were impounded.”

Patel emphasised that the most recent operation, which resulted in the cross-city mobilisation of CCIN partners, demonstrates the value and purpose of the network.

“Reliable and swift information sharing contributed to developing a strategic operation which resulted in an arrest,” he said.

“What started as a report of a suspicious vehicle unveiled a much larger operation which put the lives of residents in danger.

“The outcome was achieved through the combined efforts of numerous individuals, organisations and operational structures working towards the same objective – creating a safer environment for law-abiding citizens.”

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