Limpopo: The Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has praised a multidisciplinary team for their efforts in resolving a complex kidnapping case in the Makhado area. The team included various specialized units from the SAPS, security companies, and community organizations, all working under the leadership of Major General Samuel Manala and Major General Gopz Govender.

According to South African Police Service, the case involved the abduction of a 51-year-old businessman outside his business premises by five armed men in a silver Toyota Corolla on 16 October 2024. The suspects demanded a ransom of over R15 million. A crucial operation on 24 January 2025 in Johannesburg led to the arrest of a suspect who disclosed the location of a kingpin in Mpumalanga.

The police traced and detained the kingpin, leading them to a safe house in Limpopo’s Vhembe district where the victim was held. The businessman was recovered safely and is receiving medical care. The Tactical Response Team also participated in the operation, arresting the homeowner while two guards escaped.

To date, twelve suspects have been arrested, and they appeared in Louis Trichardt Magistrates Court in early January 2025. Their bail hearing is set for March 2025. The three most recently arrested suspects are also due in court on 27 January 2025.

Lieutenant General Hadebe commended the team’s 100-day investigation, emphasizing the importance of community safety and the ongoing pursuit of remaining suspects involved in the case.