Kidnap drama in Joburg! – Businessman rescued, 2 nabbed

JMPD

Johannesburg – A kidnapped businessman was rescued and two suspects arrested following a rapid response by Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officers in Lenasia on Sunday night.

According to a JMPD media statement, Region G officers were conducting routine patrols along Nirvana Drive on 22 February when a member of the public alerted them that his brother had been abducted at gunpoint in Lenasia Extension 13. Witnesses told police the victim, an Ethiopian national, had been forced into a white Nissan 1400 bakkie while closing his shop.

Officers proceeded to Airborne Street, where they spotted a vehicle matching the description and followed it to a dead end. The occupants exited the bakkie and entered a nearby tavern.

Police searched the vehicle and found three small keys. Although one suspect claimed they were house keys, officers tested them at the victim’s shop.

“One of the keys successfully unlocked the shop’s security gate, directly linking the suspects to the scene of the crime,” the statement said.

The suspects were arrested and allegedly disclosed that the victim was being held in Phiri, Soweto. Officers proceeded to the location and found the businessman bound with cable ties on his hands and legs. Two firearms believed to have been used in the abduction were recovered at the premises.

The victim was rescued unharmed, while the suspects were taken into custody. A case docket has been opened at Lenasia police station, and the Nissan 1400 bakkie has been seized as evidence.

JMPD Chief of Police Commissioner Patrick Jaca praised the officers’ actions, saying, “The bravery and investigative prowess shown by our officers exemplify the dedication of the JMPD to the safety of our residents.” He added that community cooperation was vital in ensuring the successful rescue.

Authorities say investigations are ongoing.

Article written by