A PERSON who was kidnapped for ransom in Isipingo on April 27 was rescued in Umlazi during the early hours of the next day after a co-ordinated effort by the police and the metro police.

Also read: Kidnapped KwaMakhutha principal rescued

Metro police spokesperson Colonel Boysie Zungu said the victim was lured through an online platform. The victim will not be named to protect their identity. He said after the kidnapping, the assailants contacted the victim’s family and demanded a ransom of R50 000 and issued multiple threats to harm the victim.

“Proof of life was confirmed during ongoing communication with the victim’s family. An urgent multi-disciplinary response was activated, including the SAPS Hostage and Crisis Negotiation Team, Crime Intelligence, and the Durban Metro Police Service K9 Unit. Information led authorities to the Umlazi L Section area, where a rapid response operation was executed,” said Zungu.

Upon arrival, he said the kidnappers fled the scene, and the victim was located and rescued near an abandoned building. The victim had sustained injuries and was attended to by medical personnel.

Zungu confirmed that no ransom was paid. He added that preliminary information indicated that five people were involved in the crime, and one suspect has already been identified. He commended all roleplayers for their swift and professional response.

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