A 67-year-old businessman from Phoenix, north of Durban, was found safe after being kidnapped on Friday in the Cornubia area. The man, known locally as the owner of a ranch and beverage delivery business, had been making a delivery when three armed men ambushed him and forced his employee out of the vehicle.
During the abduction, he managed to find an opportunity to escape. While his captors were distracted, he ran into the nearby Ndwedwe area. Despite the suspects firing several shots at him during his escape, he reached safety after flagging down a passing Uber driver, who helped him get to a nearby police station.
The man was later reunited with his family, who expressed deep relief and gratitude. His vehicle, taken during the incident, had not been recovered at the time of reporting. The incident has renewed local concerns about rising crime and public safety in the region.
Toddler Abandoned While Mother Travels to Negotiate Lobola
In a separate incident over the same weekend, a two-year-old girl was left with street vendors in the Verulam central area by her mother, who then travelled out of town.
The child was left with a small amount of food, and the mother promised to return soon. However, she remained unreachable for an extended period. The vendors, growing increasingly concerned, eventually handed the child over to local responders.
The mother returned two days later, explaining that she had gone to negotiate lobola (a customary bride price) in another town with a new partner. Upon returning, she was directed to the police station where her daughter was being cared for.
Authorities have not confirmed whether the mother was allowed to take the child home or whether she will face legal consequences. Investigations were reportedly ongoing.