Police rescue kidnapped family, nab eight suspects

Media Statement
South African Police Service
Office of the Provincial Commissioner Eastern Cape

MTHATHA - Police arrested eight (08) suspects, recovered two stolen vehicles, an unlicensed firearm, and rescued a family (six victims) following a two-day kidnapping ordeal in Lusikisiki.

It is alleged that on Sunday, 30 June 2024, around 19:00, a group of at least 10 armed suspects stormed into a homestead at France locality in Lusikisiki. It is further alleged that six occupants were held at gunpoint, and their cellphones were stolen. The suspects also stole a family vehicle (Toyota bakkie), kidnapped their victims, and took them to a different destination (homestead) at Magcakani locality in Libode.

It is further said that on the following day, 01 July 2024, one of the victims was forced to travel with the other group of suspects to withdraw cash in Mthatha, and the other five victims remained behind.

On Monday morning, 1 July 2024, police received a complaint of a disappearance of six family members. Immediately, a tracing and tracking team was activated, and with assistance from a private vehicle tracking company, police were led to a homestead in Libode.

From the homestead, police rescued five victims and nabbed four suspects. One unlicensed was found from one of the suspects.

Further police investigation led to the additional arrest of four suspects and the recovery of a stolen Toyota bakkie and a Renault Clio in Mthatha.

The sixth victim was later found unscathed at the police station in Madeira. Information in police records indicates that he was released after cash was withdrawn from the ATM.

The eight suspects aged between 25 and 44 briefly appeared in the Lusikisiki magistrate's court yesterday, 03 July 2024, on charges of kidnapping, and their matter was postponed for today, 04 July 2024. There is a possibility of additional charges at the later stage of the investigation.

Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Zithulele Dladla applauded all the stakeholders for their roles in the operation. "Police are pleased with a successful rescue operation and the subsequent arrests. The investigators are working around the clock and are closing in on the other suspects, who managed to flee," added Maj Gen Dladla
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