Kidnapper arrested and child missing in hostage drama in Verulam

One person has been arrested and a search for a kidnapped child is currently underway in the Verulam CBD – KZN.

The incident unfolded after a male entered Capitec Bank on Wick Street and informed bank employees that he and his child had been kidnapped and held hostage. They were allegedly driven to the bank in a silver Ford Ranger with an NPS registration when the man was asked to withdraw a specific amount of cash in an exchange for their freedom.

From the bank, information was provided to the South African Police who requested additional tactical support from Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA). Law Enforcement Officers from both sectors converged on the area and apprehended the driver of the Ford Ranger bakkie before he could flee. He informed Officers that he resided in Inanda – KZN. A brown leather band with Muthi for protection was found strapped on his left arm.

According to the father, he could not confirm if the child was at home or was transported to the Verulam Cbd. He was visibly traumatised and believed that the remaining suspects removed the child from the vicinity when he entered the bank.

Reaction Officers and SAPS Officers are searching the area.