On Thursday, 05 March 2026 at approximately 08:00, members from the Anti-Hijacking Task Team Enhlanzeni, Pilgrim’s Rest Illicit Operational Team, and Crime Intelligence were officially on duty conducting tracking and tracing operations in the Enhlanzeni District. During the operation, members received information regarding a kidnapping incident where suspects were allegedly demanding a ransom from the victim’s family. Members immediately followed up on the information and conducted further investigations.
It was established that an amount of R1 000, which had been sent by the victim’s family as part of the ransom demand, was withdrawn in Matsulu. The operational teams were activated and proceeded to Matsulu to conduct follow-up investigations. Arrangements were subsequently made by the suspects for the family to send an additional R2 600, which was to be withdrawn at a supermarket. A tactical take-down operation was planned and executed, with members strategically positioned around the complex.
When the suspect attempted to withdraw the money, he was identified and immediately arrested. Upon searching the suspect, members found him in possession of the kidnapped victim’s cellphone, which was confiscated as evidence. Further investigations led members to Matsulu A, where a second suspect was successfully traced and arrested. It was also established that the victim had been released by the suspects prior to the take-down operation near Barberton, and he was safely reunited with his family.
The suspects, aged 39 and 23, were subsequently detained for further investigation. The suspects are expected to appear at the Sabie Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 06 March 2026. #TrioCrimes #fightingcrime
