Two suspects arrested in Gauteng on Tuesday, May 26, appeared in the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court today.

The accused are facing charges of kidnapping and attempted extortion*.

ALSO READ: Two arrested in connection with kidnapping of Mbombela businessman

According to National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Monica Nyuswa, the state indicated that it will oppose the accused’s bail application.

The matter was postponed to June 2 for a bail hearing.

The suspects were arrested during an intelligence-driven operation involving various law enforcement agencies and private security companies acting on information about their whereabouts.

Two vehicles – a VW Golf and VW Polo – allegedly used in the kidnapping were seized, along with a licensed firearm.

According to reports, the abduction unfolded when the businessman’s vehicle was allegedly forced to stop after a collision on Von Braun Street.

ALSO READ: Man allegedly kidnapped in Mbombela

Armed suspects allegedly abducted the victim while his daughter was left unharmed, although deeply traumatised by the ordeal.

Although the victim’s identity is known to Lowvelder, the publication has chosen not to publish it for legal and ethical reasons.

*This article was amended after publication to remove the identities of suspects facing charges of attempted extortion.