The kidnapped Pietermaritzburg matric learner has been found.

Abdul Mateen Khalid (17) was found in an outbuilding in Umzinto following ongoing intelligence-driven operations.

A high level source said that the teen was found at around 07:00.

“A further three suspects have been arrested. The boy was found and will be reunited with his family once the necessary steps have been followed. He will be taken for a medical consultation to check if he hasn’t been harmed and a social worker will be called in,” says the source.

The intelligence-driven operations were carried out and cracked by the Hawks, Durban Anti-gang Unit, PMB Crime Intelligence, Umgungundlovu District Cluster under Colonel Rumen Maistry, DCPI Colonel Nelson Naicker, as well as RZS Security, Mi7 National group and Magma Securities.

The kidnap

Abdul was taken on May 22, when three men posing as police officers kidnapped him at gunpoint near Brixham Road in Orient Heights, Pietermaritzburg.

A hefty ransom was asked for his release and two men were subsequently arrested.

Also read: KZN police intensify search for kidnapped teen after breakthrough in case