Two arrested for kidnapping and robbery of German tourist in Graskop

The Mpumalanga police have arrested two men for the robbery and kidnapping of a German tourist in Graskop on Monday, November 4.

According to a provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, the German tourist was attacked shortly after he had withdrawn cash from an ATM at a fuel station in Graskop.

“A concerned member of the public promptly alerted the police about the incident. The information provided to the SAPS indicated that the suspects were travelling in a Hyundai SUV. The police were conducting Operation Safer Festive Season and acted on this intelligence, locating and intercepting the vehicle,” he said.

Mdhluli said the suspects were cornered and apprehended in some nearby bushes. They rescued the victim, who had suffered some injuries during the incident.

“The vehicle used in the commission of the crime was seized and forms a crucial part of the ongoing investigation. The police are exploring the possibility of additional charges against the suspects, including potential links to other criminal activities involving the same vehicle. Preliminary investigations revealed that the vehicle in question was a rented car.”

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The acting provincial police commissioner, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, commended the police officers for apprehending the suspects. “The success of the 2024/25 Operation Safer Festive Season is evident in this operation. We are pleased with the outcome, especially considering a previous tragic incident involving a German tourist who was unfortunately murdered in October 2022. We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The collaboration between the police and the community is vital in combatting crime, as was demonstrated in this case,” Mkhwanazi said.

Details regarding the suspects’ court appearance have not been made available.