FREE STATE – Hitchhikers are targeted, kidnapped and ransom demanded from relatives. Organized Crime and Crime Intelligence are following every lead to trace these kidnappers.

Several incidents of kidnapping have been registered throughout Lejweleputswa District police stations, where hitchhikers are given lifts and kidnapped along the way.

These kidnappers are usually three African males speaking Zulu and Sotho. After kidnapping the victim, the suspects will then demand a ransom and that it must be paid into the victim’s bank account.

Hitchhikers are sternly warned to avoid the following hiking spots: Joel mine adjacent to Beatrix mine, Allanridge hiking spot in R30 National road, Jazz Corner Odendaalsrus, Harmony Mine Saaiplaas Virginia, Mannys in Welkom towards Bloemfontein road.

Should anyone have information leading to the arrest of these kidnappers, Detective Captain Tieho Flyman of Provincial Organized Crime can be contacted at 082 536 2683 or Crime Stop at 08600 10111.

Source: South African Police Service