The two men accused of kidnapping and extortion made a brief appearance at the Pinetown Magistrate’s Court on Thursday (May 28), where the matter was remanded for June 8, reports Highway Mail.

The accused were arrested on Tuesday (May 26) for three kidnapping incidents, some involving minor children, and extortion where it is alleged they had demanded ransoms ranging from R10 000 to R12 000.

These kidnappings include that of two Pinetown Boys High School learners, one who was kidnapped on May 22 and the other on April 24.

Police are also investigating whether the pair is linked to another case of kidnapping and extortion. They will remain in police custody until their next court appearance.

The investigating officer intends to oppose the pair’s bail application should they choose to make one.

KZN SAPS spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Paul Magwaza, said the suspects, aged 29 and 35, were arrested  during an operation conducted in Clermont as well as in Malvern.

“Police officers from Pinetown Trio Task team as well as KwaDabeka Field Unit followed up on information provided by Crime Intelligence on suspects who were wanted for cases of kidnapping and extortion which were committed around the Pinetown policing precinct,” said Magwaza.

He added that the one suspect was arrested on Tuesday evening in the Clermont area, while the second one was arrested in Malvern.

“The second suspect was found in possession of two vehicles and a replica firearm that are suspected to have been used during the commission of the crimes.

“The arrested were charged for kidnapping and extortion.”

Last Friday (May 22), in a second incident within a month, a Pinetown Boys High School learner was kidnapped while on his way to school.

The pupil was found later that evening unharmed.

Late last month the school was prompted to beef up its security measures following the traumatic kidnapping of another learner.

The police confirmed then that that learner was released ‘unharmed’ on the same day (April 24) of the kidnapping.

According to the police, that learner had been standing outside the school when unknown men forced him into their car.

Magwaza confirmed at the time that the learner was released after a ransom was paid.

It was reported that the learner was released that evening at about 19:00, with no visible injuries, but was left severely traumatised, along with members of his family.

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