A suspect linked to the kidnapping of a Pakistani businessman in Hluhluwe, northern KwaZulu-Natal, was shot and fatally wounded during a shootout with police near Empangeni on Saturday night.
The businessman was reportedly kidnapped on 6 May 2026, with suspects demanding a ransom of R200 000 for his release.
KwaZulu-Natal SAPS spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said the victim was released the following day after an amount of R90 000 was paid.
“The Pakistan businessman was released on the following day, and an amount of R90 000 was paid, and the victim was released on condition that the balance would be paid after his freedom was guaranteed,” said Netshiunda.
Police later launched an operation to track down the suspects.
“The Empangeni Tactical Response Team initiated an operation and a guided drop-off of the outstanding balance was arranged,” he said.
“On Saturday night, a parcel was dropped on the N2 northbound, and three suspects, who were travelling in a bakkie, arrived to pick up the parcel.”
Netshiunda said police officers confronted the suspects, leading to a shootout.
“The TRT officers confronted the suspects, and a shootout ensued. One suspect was shot and fatally wounded at the scene. The second suspect fled into the bushes and disappeared in the darkness, whilst the third suspect drove off,” he said.
“The bakkie he was driving was found abandoned on the N2 on-ramp at Empangeni.”
Police also recovered a firearm with a filed-off serial number from the deceased suspect.
“A manhunt for the suspects who evaded arrest is underway,” added Netshiunda.