In a successful operation, Hawks members from Port Shepstone Serious Organised Crime Investigation, in collaboration with the Special Task Force, Crime Intelligence, and Ugu District Hostage Negotiators, apprehended four suspects, aged between 22 and 53, for their alleged involvement in two kidnapping incidents in Hibberdene and Margate.
The first incident occurred on 26 April 2024, when a 36-year-old Bangladeshi victim was abducted while en route to his shop in Margate. The kidnappers contacted a relative of the victim, demanding a ransom of R800,000.
A kidnapping case was reported at the Margate police station, leading to the Hawks taking charge of the investigation. Following negotiations, a ransom of R115,000 was paid on 1 May 2024, and the victim was released the next day.
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The second incident took place on 18 May 2024, when a 24-year-old Bangladeshi victim was kidnapped in the Hibberdene area. The kidnappers contacted the victim’s employer, demanding a ransom of R500,000.
A kidnapping case was reported at the Hibberdene police station, and the Hawks initiated a thorough investigation.
A joint operation was conducted, resulting in a ransom payment of R100,000 to the kidnappers. Subsequently, three suspects were arrested near a private hospital, with R94,000 recovered from them.
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The arrested suspects then led the police to a farm in Umzumbe, where another suspect was apprehended, and the victim was successfully rescued. The victim received medical attention at a nearby hospital.
Preliminary investigations suggest a positive link between the two kidnapping incidents. As a result, the suspects are expected to face charges related to both cases, including kidnapping and extortion. They are scheduled to appear in the Umzumbe Magistrate’s Court on 24 May 2024.
The successful operation highlights the dedication and effectiveness of the Hawks and their partners in combating serious crimes like kidnapping, ensuring the safety and security of the community.
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