| 2025/03/28 |
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Media Statement KWAZULU-NATAL – On Wednesday, 26 March 2025, a joint operation conducted by the Hawks members from Durban Serious Organised Crime Investigation, Tracking Team, Anti-Gang Unit, Durban Metro police and local security company resulted in the arrest of three suspects, aged 28 to 41, for kidnapping and extortion in Verulam. The harrowing incident occurred on 18 March 2025, when the victim was lured to Rosemary Drive in Verulam under the pretences of a job offer. The unsuspecting victim was held captive at gunpoint, assaulted and threatened with a firearm. The ruthless suspects demanded a ransom of R120 000 and proceeded to call the victim’s wife to extort money from her. During the ordeal, they also stole the victim’s bank card and withdrew money from his account. After holding the victim captive for an agonising four hours, the kidnappers discovered that the victim’s bank account did not contain the expected amount of money. In a twisted turn of events, they decided to release him. Thanks to the prompt and collaborative efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies, the suspects were apprehended on 26 March 2025, at their residence in Verulam and charged with kidnapping, extortion and related offences. The suspects are expected to appear in the Verulam Magistrate’s court on 28 March 2025. The KwaZulu-Natal Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation Provincial Head, Major General (Dr) Lesetja Senona applauded the members for the good work. “The swift response and decisive action of the Hawks, Durban Metro police and the local security company is a testament to the power of collaborative law enforcement efforts in combating crime and protecting innocent citizens from harm,” he said. Ends
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