Johannesburg – A Portuguese businessman kidnapped earlier this week has been rescued in a swift police operation in Westdene, Johannesburg, authorities confirmed on Friday.
A multi-disciplinary law enforcement team, led by the Crime Intelligence Kidnapping Team, successfully freed the victim and arrested a 26-year-old Zimbabwean national in connection with the abduction, police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Amanda van Wyk said.
The businessman was kidnapped on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, shortly after dropping off an employee in Rewlatch. A ransom demand was later made to secure his release.
#sapsHQ A multi-disciplinary team led by the Crime Intelligence #Kidnapping Team successfully rescued a kidnapped Portuguese businessman in Westdene, Johannesburg, this morning. One suspect, a 26yr-old Zimbabwean national, has been arrested. MEhttps://t.co/SFvQZNHGkO pic.twitter.com/o6zfDSs4d5
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) March 15, 2025
“Acting on intelligence, the team, comprising members from the National Crime Intelligence Kidnapping Team, Special Task Force, Gauteng Crime Intelligence Kidnapping Team, Crime Intelligence Cyber Security, Soweto Hostage Negotiation Team (HNT), and other stakeholders, identified a location in Westdene and executed a tactical operation,” Van Wyk said.
Upon arrival, officers found the victim unharmed and took the suspect into custody.
“The investigation is ongoing, and further arrests are expected,” said Van Wyk.
The arrested suspect is expected to appear in court next week.
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Picture: X/@SAPoliceService
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
