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The kidnapped victim's remains were found in a shallow grave on a beach.
Image: iStock.
Western Cape police on Saturday arrested four people connected to a kidnapping that ended in murder.
Their arrest followed a joint intelligence-led operation comprising of the Hawks, provincial anti-kidnapping unit, and hostage negotiation specialists of South African Police Service (Saps).
All four suspects, aged between 29 and 42, are scheduled to appear at the Kuilsriver Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
They will be facing charges of kidnapping, extortion, and murder.
“Our team worked tirelessly to track down the perpetrators of this heinous crime,” said Western Cape police spokesperson Siyabulela Vukubi in a statement.
Kidnapping victim disappeared after vehicle viewing
According to police, the victim was last seen on Thursday when he informed a friend he was traveling to Bellville to view a vehicle he intended to purchase.
When he failed to return, concern grew among his associates.
“The victim’s friend received a distressing call from him stating that he had been kidnapped and was being assaulted,” Vukubi explained.
“Shortly thereafter, the kidnappers demanded a ransom of R100 000 for his release.”
The suspects later reduced their demand to R10 000 and provided banking details for the transfer of funds.
Investigators reportedly confirmed that R5 000 was deposited into the specified account, but the perpetrators continued demanding the outstanding balance.
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Kidnapping investigation leads to grim discovery
Following numerous leads, the multi-disciplinary team conducted raids at addresses in Philippi and Kleinvlei on Saturday, resulting in the arrests.
“Further investigation led our officers to a devastating discovery,” said Vukubi.
“One of the suspects directed the team to an open field on the dunes between Monwabisi Beach and Macassar, where they found a shallow grave containing the victim’s remains.”
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Hawks Western Cape head commends investigation
The Hawks’ provincial head, Mathipa Makgato, praised the investigative team for their effective work in bringing the suspects to justice.
“Saps will leave no stone unturned to bring the perpetrators to book,” Makgato stated.
“The precision and resilience demonstrated by our officers brought about this significant breakthrough,” said Vukubi.
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