SANDF intercepts alleged kidnapping incident, 7 suspects arrested  

Seven suspects – one of whom is a former police officer and a female accomplice – were arrested by the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) after they were found with a 37-year-old individual who is believed to have been kidnapped.

All seven suspects together with the victim had been travelling along one of the main roads in  KaMaqhekeza, Nelspruit, when they were pulled over by the SANDF members. The members reported that the navy blue BMW, tailed by a blue Mini Cooper just outside Komatipoort, appeared suspicious given its large number of occupants.

The vehicles were stopped for investigation. At this point, the victim appealed to the SANDF members for help, stating that he was forcefully picked up by the others who were with him from his residence and assaulted. He said that he was then shoved into the car and was being taken to an undisclosed location.

ALSO READ: Family distraught after kidnapped businessman Ranga Gova missing for a week

The army members then took the victim and the suspects and handed them over to the police in Tonga. They have confirmed that an investigation into the motive behind the alleged kidnapping and assault was underway.

The seven suspects – all between the ages of 22 and 43 – were charged accordingly. They are expected to appear before the Nkomazi Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 19 December 2022.

The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela applauded members of the SANDF for their vigilance and outstanding work which saved the victim’s life.

Girl (14) also abducted, kidnapper demands cash

Meanwhile, police are still on a manhunt for a suspect who kidnapped a 14-year-old girl in the Eastern Cape and demanded a significant amount of money in ransom for her safe return.

The teen girl, Alulutho Phuphu,  was abducted while going to a salon in town on Saturday, 10 December in the Zingqolweni Location in Lady Frere.

NOW READ: SA’s growing kidnapping scourge – Anyone could be next

When Alulutho did not return after a prolonged period of time, her grandmother was said to have called her cell phone. It was reported that the phoned was answered by a man who demanded money for the girl’s safe return.

The grandmother immediately went to the police who confirmed that a preliminary investigation was done and added that it yielded no positive results.

Police are urging members of the public who might have information about the child’s disappearance or know anything concerning her whereabouts to contact Investigating Officer Sergeant Ronnie Present on 073 173 7839 and or Lady Frere SAPS on 047 878 0008.