A joint operation between law enforcement led to the rescue of 12 boys and the arrest of a foreign national suspected of kidnapping in Mulbarton, Johannesburg South, on January 5.

The accused, from Ethiopia, appeared in the Booysens Magistrate’s Court on March 5.

The kidnapping case has been postponed to April 24 as victim statements remain outstanding in the case.

The prosecutor, Miss Zwane, requested a postponement due to outstanding witness statements.

The prosecution confirmed it would obtain the victim’s statements and that the matter had already been referred to the Senior Public Prosecutor (SPP) for further review.

The SPP is expected to decide whether to proceed with the case and whether additional charges under the Immigration Act will be brought against the accused.

Magistrate Mashitse granted the postponement as the SPP is said to be in possession of the victim’s statements that will allow the case to proceed.

The accused is out on bail, which has been extended until the next hearing.

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