The Mpumalanga police have arrested two men in connection with the robbery and kidnapping of a German tourist in Graskop yesterday.

According to provincial police spokesperson Colonel Donald Mdhluli, the German tourist was attacked shortly after withdrawing 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 says.

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

“The vehicle used in the commission of the crime was seized and is 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 was a rented car.”

The acting provincial police commissioner, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, commends the officers for their efforts.

“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 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 combating crime, as demonstrated in this case,” Mkhwanazi says.

Details regarding the suspects’ court appearance have not been disclosed.