UPDATE: Police respond – missing Newcastle girls kidnapped at gunpoint

A kidnapping which occurred this morning involving three schoolgirls, has been confirmed by police and new information has come to light.

Newcastle SAPS Spokesperson, Captain Jabulani Ncube said the kidnapping took place at around 6.45am between Madadeni and Newcastle.

ALSO READ: UPDATE: Kidnapped girls still missing – parents distraught

“A charcoal grey BMW was transporting six children (three boys and three girls), and three adults from Madadeni Section 4 to Newcastle Islamic College.”

According to Capt Ncube, three suspects on foot flagged down the vehicle in an attempt to convince the driver there was a fault with the vehicle’s tyre.

Once the vehicle was stopped, the suspects produced firearms.

“Three of the six children and the three adults managed to escape from the vehicle. However, the three girls aged 6, 9 and 11, were not so fortunate as the suspects fled the scene with them in the vehicle. The motive of the crime is still unknown and is now subject to FSC investigations. The case might be taken over by another specialised SAPS Unit,” confirmed Capt Ncube.

READ NOW: BREAKING NEWS: Three Newcastle schoolgirls involved in possible hijack/kidnap situation

While the hours tick away, there is still no indication on the whereabouts of the vehicle or the location of the children at this moment.

Captain Ncube is appealing to members of the community to contact 10111 or their nearest police station, should they see the vehicle or the children, or if they can assist with any information pertaining to the crime.

Also remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages.