A kidnapped man was rescued on Thursday, November 27, leading to the arrest of three suspects and the impounding of two vehicles.

Lowvelder understands that members of the Mpumalanga Organised Crime Unit were investigating a kidnapping.

They first pounced on two suspects at a premises in Hlabekisa Trust, about 80km north-west of Graskop, that belongs to a former MEC. During the arrest, the victim was found locked in a room and tied up with wires.

“He was severely injured after his kidnappers allegedly tortured him,” said a source close to the investigation, who opted for strict anonymity. The victim was transported to an undisclosed hospital for treatment.

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“The suspects were reportedly arrested after phoning the victim’s wife and demanding a ransom amounting to R100 000,” she said.

Two vehicles believed to have been used in the kidnapping were impounded from the premises as well.

One of the vehicles is registered in a former Mpumalanga MEC’s name, while the other is registered in the name of one of his relatives. Both vehicles are in the SAPS 13 stores,” said the source.

Despite only one vehicle being registered in the former MEC’s name, it is well known that he has driven both vehicles on many occasions.

The police took the suspects and vehicles to the Dientjie Police Station, where they were processed.

Officers then proceeded to another address where they arrested a third suspect and confiscated a firearm with ammunition.

Lowvelder has reliably been informed that the kidnapping case was registered in Witbank and transferred to Lydenburg.

The former MEC was not arrested, but investigations are ongoing.

The suspects are facing charges of kidnapping, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, intimidation, attempted murder and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, among others.

Mpumalanga Hawks spokesperson, Warrant Officer Thandi Tshabalala, confirmed the arrests but said she was still collecting more information before she could provide a detailed report.

This is a developing story. An update will be published as more information becomes available.