“We’ve got your son … don’t call the police, or we’ll kill him.”
This was the terrifying message Johan James received on Tuesday evening. His son, Eric (22), was allegedly kidnapped outside Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court at around 10am the same day.
Now, those who captured him are demanding R100 000.
“Eric told me he was quickly going to see his brother outside the court where his motorcycle was parked and I haven’t seen him since,” worried father Johan told Express on Friday morning. Johan lives in Cape Town and his son in Kempton Park. Eric was at the court to testify in a case of alleged theft from his former employer.
“He never missed a court appearance because he wants to prove his innocence,” Johan said. According to him, his son would never purposefully let his family worry. For this reason, Johan opened a case with Kempton Park SAPS the very same evening.
According to the station’s spokesperson, Capt Jethro Mtshali, local detectives are investigating a case of kidnapping. He said this investigation was at an advanced stage.
“Due to the sensitivity of the matter, we cannot reveal more information as that might jeopardise the case,” he added.
“I don’t know if my son is dead or alive,” Johan said, the fear evident in his voice. “My family is worried sick.”
Mtshali urged anyone with information to contact the investigating officer, D/Sgt Dewald de Lange, on 011 393 8752 or 086 001 011. They can also send a message to the line number 32211.
