The management of the police in Mpumalanga applauded the swift reaction displayed by the multidisciplinary team during the kidnapping incident of a minor at a high school in Kriel, Mpumalanga on Monday, 22 July 2024.
It is alleged that on the day in question, four suspects a female and three males visited a high school in Kriel. On arrival at school, the female suspect entered the school while her accomplices remained in the vehicle. She called a learner and asked her to go call the victim and also to inform her that her mother was ill. The victim came running, and they told her that they were sent to fetch her. The victim entered the vehicle, and they drove away. They alleged that the mother of the victim is owing them. They started making some calls demanding R200 000.00 ransom.
The complainant, who is a businesswoman, told them that she does not have the demanded ransom but only had R9000.00. She was given three bank accounts to deposit the money through cash send. After the money was deposited and the suspects withdrew the funds.
The matter was reported to the police and all role players, Directorate of Priority Crime Investigation’s Middelburg based Serious Organised Crime Investigation, Kriel SAPS, Nkangala District, East Rand High Way Patrol, K9 East Rand, Middelburg Highway Patrol, Graphite Security Company and the SAPS’ suicide and hostage negotiator responded swiftly. Preliminary investigation was conducted. The vehicle of the suspects was identified at the vicinity where they withdrew the money. Investigation led the team to Vorsloorus in Gauteng where the four suspects, were arrested. The victim was also rescued unharmed. The ransom money was recovered.
Further investigation led the team to Kriel where another three suspects, a female and two males were also arrested and detained.
The seven suspects appeared before the Kriel Magistrates Court on Thursday, 25 July 2024. The case was postponed to Monday, 29 July 2024 for legal aid and private lawyers’ appointment. Investigation continues
The Provincial Head of the Hawks, Major General Gerber, appreciated the work done by the team. He praised the team for swift action and reuniting the family. The General further requested assistance from all community members to join hands to fight the scourge of kidnapping incidents which is on the rise in the province.
The parents and public are advised to sensitise their children that they must not leave with anybody unless specifically arranged and informed by the parents. Educators are requested to sensitize learners regarding the issue during assembly and meetings. The department is requested to ensure safety at schools and restrict entry to school premises. He concluded.’