Cape Town – A 43-year-old man was arrested hours after a 32-year-old man was kidnapped and a ransom demanded for his release was made.
The suspect will appear at the Delmas Magistrate’s Court on Monday on charges of kidnapping, extortion, armed robbery, and illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.
According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala the suspect was arrested at Botleng, Delmas, on Friday.
“The suspect was arrested hours after a 32-year-old victim was kidnapped and a ransom demanded for his release,” Mohlala said.
According to police information, the 32-year-old victim visited a friend in Botleng on Thursday.
“He left (the friend’s place) just before 10pm. In less than 30 minutes, the friend allegedly received a call from his visitor’s phone who could be heard screaming that he has been abducted,” said Mohlala in a statement.
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While the friend was still shocked he also heard someone over the phone demanding ransom for his friend’s release.
“After receiving that call, he reported to the police and it is alleged that more of the victim’s friends also reported to the police that they received strange calls with a demand of the ransom for the victim’s release,” said Mohlala.
A team of investigators, including officers from SAPS crime intelligence and hostage negotiators, was assembled.
“Yesterday, Friday, January 6, 2023, the victim arrived at the police station after he was released at about 3pm. He was interviewed and it was established that his mobile phone was still at the hands of the suspect.
“Investigation was intensified and led police to a location in Botleng where the suspect fitting the description given by the victim was found,” said Mohlala.
The suspect was found in possession of the victim’s phone and an unlicensed firearm Norinco 9mm pistol with the serial numbers filed off and 22 live rounds of ammunition.
“Investigation further revealed that the firearm was also reported missing during a business robbery that took place in Pretoria in 2020.
“The suspect was arrested and charged with kidnapping, extortion, armed robbery and illegal possession of firearm and ammunition. Police cannot rule out possibilities of adding other charges as the investigation continues,” said Mohlala.
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Compiled by Olwethu Mpeshe
