Young men charged for kidnapping and robbing doctor

TWO teenagers and one man were expected to appear in the Durban Magistrate’s Court this week for the kidnapping and robbery of a 43-year-old doctor from The Bluff, on October 1.

The three men were charged with carjacking, kidnapping, robbery, theft, assault and possession of a dangerous weapon.

The doctor, who declined an interview with the SUN for fear of his safety, was driving his silver VW T-Cross when he was flagged down on Admiral Road on The Bluff at about 19:00 by a person he thought he knew.

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Spokesperson for Brighton Beach Police Station Captain Louise le Roux said, “When he stopped, one suspect pointed a firearm at him and was thereafter joined by two other suspects. He was taken to a field at a nearby sports ground where the men took his iPhone and demanded his cash cards with the pin numbers.

“He was shoved into the trunk of the vehicle. The card was declined after the incorrect PIN was used, and the suspects then demanded a cash-send transaction of R1 500. They then drove to a tavern in Amamzimtoti, and while they were drinking inside, the victim managed to escape from the boot and ran to a nearby shop. The tracker device was activated, and the vehicle was found and recovered in Amanzimtoti. The suspects fled, and the victim, who was assaulted during the kidnapping and robbery, received medical treatment at the police station. He was referred to Wentworth Hospital for further treatment,” Le Roux said.

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After the suspects evaded arrest, detectives from Brighton Beach Police Station pursued investigations, and on October 4, Detective Constable Samukelo Mdletshe arrested a suspect on The Bluff.

Captain Brad Varley and Mdletshe thereafter recovered the victim’s new iPhone valued at R50 000. As investigations progressed, a 9mm replica gas pistol was recovered. The first suspect who was arrested then spilt the beans on the whereabouts of his two accomplices.

The two officers continued to trace the outstanding suspects, and on October 5, all suspects, aged 18, 19 and 21, were arrested.

Le Roux said that carjacking within The Bluff policing area remains a stubborn crime category. “Our detective team persevered, displayed their versatility and ensured that the perpetrators stand to account in a court of law for their wrongdoings. We commend them,” added Le Roux.

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