Man kidnapped outside Stilfontein nightclub: 1 in hospital, 1 in court

One of the suspects in a kidnapping case is expected to appear in the Stilfontein Magistrate’s Court today, while the man arrested alongside him continues to recover in hospital under police guard.

The duo were apprehended on Sunday after a co-ordinated effort involving various law enforcement agencies and security personnel, saw the North West police successfully rescue a kidnapping victim.

The operation saw the collaboration of the North West Provincial Drug Task Team, Hostage Negotiators, Crime Intelligence, West Rand Flying Squad, the Air Wing, Carletonville K9 Unit, Fochville police, Spectrac Security, and BIU Security.

Kidnapping and ransom demand

The arrests follow the kidnapping of a 23-year-old victim from outside a nightclub in Stilfontein during the early hours of Saturday morning. Armed individuals, driving a Nissan vehicle, forcibly took the victim and also stole his Volkswagen Polo. Subsequently, the suspects reportedly demanded a ransom from the victim’s family, threatening dire consequences if their demands weren’t met. The victim’s Volkswagen Polo was discovered abandoned in Khuma later that morning.

Utilising hostage negotiation tactics, authorities arranged for a ransom drop-off on Sunday. As two men retrieved the ransom, law enforcement officers intercepted them near the N12 highway, close to Fochville, around 13:00. Despite their attempt to evade capture by speeding away, police intervention led to their apprehension after a pursuit that ended with shots fired.

One of the men, aged 40, sustained injuries during the confrontation and is currently hospitalised under police supervision.

Police successfully recovered the ransom money and seized the suspects’ vehicle along with a firearm believed to have been used in the commission of the crimes. Following the arrests, the kidnapped victim was safely released at Doornkop Police Station – unharmed.

One of the suspects, aged 33, is slated to appear in court today.

In commendation of the swift and effective operation, North West police commissioner Lieutenant General Sello Kwena praised the collaborative effort of the team involved. He emphasised that such decisive actions send a clear message that criminal activities, particularly kidnappings and extortion, will not be tolerated within the province.

“The successful rescue and apprehension underscore the dedication and professionalism of law enforcement agencies in ensuring the safety and security of residents within the North West province.”