Funeral convoy horror: Cops rescue kidnap victim, bust gunmen with 3 illegal firearms

Guns

PARKTOWN – Quick action by members of the Johannesburg Public Order Policing (POP) unit led to the rescue of an alleged kidnapping victim and the arrest of two suspects found in possession of three unlicensed firearms during an operation in Gauteng on Tuesday morning.

Police said the incident occurred on 30 December 2025 while officers were monitoring funeral proceedings in Bekkersdal. During a funeral convoy, officers noticed suspicious behaviour from a passenger travelling in a Ford Figo, prompting them to stop the vehicle.

“The members observed a passenger who appeared distressed and immediately acted on their instincts by stopping the vehicle,” said a police spokesperson.

“Their vigilance proved critical in preventing what could have been a serious escalation of the crime.”

According to police, the two male suspects attempted to flee the scene on foot but were swiftly apprehended by officers. A subsequent search led to the discovery of three unlicensed firearms, one of which had its serial number filed off.

“The suspects were found in possession of three firearms without licences, and one firearm had a tampered serial number, which is a serious offence,” the spokesperson said.

The passenger in the vehicle later informed police that he had been kidnapped in Finsbury, Mohlakeng. A kidnapping case has since been opened at the relevant police station.

“The victim confirmed that he was abducted earlier and was being transported against his will,” the spokesperson added. “Thanks to the timely intervention of our members, he was safely rescued.”

The two suspects are expected to appear in court soon on charges of kidnapping and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. Police said investigations into the incident are ongoing.

Follow African Insider on Facebook, X and Instagram

Picture: X/@_ArriveAlive

For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com

Compiled by Betha Madhomu

 

Article written by