NELSPRUIT – Police in Mpumalanga are investigating a case of kidnapping after a 33-year-old man was kidnapped by four suspects in Komatipoort on 09 December 2022.
The victim alleged that at about 03:30 on the said day while he was queuing with other trucks to cross Lebombo Port of Entry from South Africa to Mozambique.
It is alleged that he decided to walk to the nearest filling station for some refreshments.
When he returned to the truck and boarding the truck, he was unexpectedly pulled down.
According to information, the said suspects dragged him to the nearby bushes. They demanded a transfer of R30 000-00 from him but he only managed a lesser amount. They then reportedly assaulted him with a panga as well as a firearm and told him to request the rest of the money from his family members. His brother is said to have deposited him an undisclosed amount of cash, which they made him to transfer it into the suspects’ account. Two of the suspects departed from the scene and he was left with the other two. One of the two that remained with him also left and he was left with the one suspect. Around 22:00 the victim was somehow set free and escaped from being killed.
The victim is said to have ran and finally managed to reach the police station where a case of kidnapping was registered.
During investigation it was discovered that the suspects managed to withdraw some transferred cash. An investigation continues.
The Police believe that the man captured in the attached picture may assist in the investigation hence he is urged to immediately contact the nearest police station. Members of the public are also requested to assist if they know his whereabouts or that of the suspects by contacting Detective Sergeant Zero Ngobeni on 072 686 3142. Alternatively members of the public can call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or send information via MYSAPSAPP. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
Meanwhile the Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has indicated that the police will do all in their powers to ensure that perpetrators are soon brought to book.

Source: South African Police Service