DURBAN – It is alleged by the complainant that on 4 March 2022 at 22:30, her husband did not arrive home and when she phoned him, she sensed that he was in trouble. Suddenly, the phone was taken from him by an unknown male who demanded a ransom of R1 million so that the victim will be released. Charges of kidnapping and extortion were opened for investigation at Westville SAPS.

A Task Team was activated by the Westville station commander to search for the victim and the suspects. Police were later informed that the victim managed to escape and found his way to the Taylors Halt SAPS. Information was followed up after it was found that the victim was held at a house at KwaDindi in Taylors Halt. Two suspects aged 27 and 32 were placed under arrest after they were found in possession of two firearms and ammunition.

During the police investigation, it was established that the victim was kidnapped from his business premises in Resevoir Hills and cash was taken by the suspects from the premises. While he was held captive, the suspects withdrew more cash from his credit card. The suspects will appear in the Pinetown Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 8 March 2022 on charges of unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, kidnapping as well as extortion.

Source: South African Police Service