PARKTOWN – The Provincial Commissioner of Gauteng, Lieutenant General Ellias Mawela has in strongest terms condemned the incident where a man falsely reported a hijacking and  kidnapping of a five-year-old boy.

It is alleged that on Saturday, 20 November 2021, a 23-year-old man reported that he was driving with his five-year-old nephew when four unknown men stopped them, threatened him with firearms to get out of the car before fleeing with the child. Resources were mobilised to track the alleged hijackers in order to save the life of the child. Upon further questioning, It was established that the man had lied and the alleged hijacked vehicle was parked at his home and the child was also safe. He was arrested and charged with Perjury.

Lieutenant General Mawela expressed his disappointment on the behaviour of the man as this was irresponsible and reckless. “Children are kidnapped at times and we are obliged to immediately investigate. A false report puts a lot of strain on police resources which could have been directed to real incidents of crime and to victims who genuinely need police assistance,” expressed Lt Gen Mawela. He further stressed the importance of working together with the police in ensuring that women and children are protected. “With 16 Days of No Violence Against Women and Children campaign approaching, we plead with our communities to join the fight against crimes perpetrated against women and children, not only during this period but at all times,” said Lt Gen Mawela.

The public is warned to refrain from reporting false cases as they could face criminal charges.

Source: South African Police Service