Police searching for escaped kidnapper

Police are searching for escaped mental patient and alleged kidnapper, Ray Pahlo (44), after he escaped from the custody of the Weskoppies Psychiatric Hospital while receiving treatment at Kalafong Hospital in Atteridgeville last week.

According to Brooklyn police spokesperson, Captain Colette Weilbach, the Department of Health has issued a notice of abscondment for Pahlo. “The Brooklyn police together with other authorities are working together and will do everything possible to trace Mr Pahlo and to return him to Weskoppies Hospital,” said Weilbach.

Pahlo was arrested in 2012 after he allegedly kidnapped his biological daughter, Pura Pahlo, from her foster mother outside Waterkloof Primary School. Pahlo was arrested several days later when he tried to check into a guesthouse with Pura in Mpumalanga. He is still awaiting trial for the kidnapping.

“He must continue observation and treatment according to the Mental Health Act before he can stand trial for a Brooklyn kidnapping case of 2012,” said Weilbach.

Evan Andreou, Pura’s foster father, said he was concerned that Pahlo could return for their 9-year-old foster daughter. “We are very concerned and worried that he might try to kidnap her again. Pura knows about his escape and is distressed about it,” said Andreou.

Police are requesting the community’s assistance. “Anyone with information with regard to Mr Pahlo’s whereabouts can contact the Brooklyn police station on 012-366-1735/6 or the South African Police Service’s Crime Stop number on 08600-10111,” Weilbach said.