By OBAKENG MAJE
7 April 2025- Five suspects were arrested for kidnapping. This comes after a man (39), was allegedly kidnapped for ransom.
According to the North West police spokesperson, Captain Mpho Manyoba, the various South African Police Service (SAPS) National and Provincial units were activated following the incident reported in Wolmaransstad on Friday night, 4 April 2025. Manyoba said subsequent negotiations led the team to Welkom and Virginia in the Free State Province, where five suspects were arrested and a kidnapped victim was rescued unharmed.
“During the arrest, the team seized three cell phones, including the victim’s and a replica firearm. The suspects aged between 29 and 45, are due to appear in the Wolmaransstad Magistrate’s Court on 7 April 2025, facing charges of kidnapping, extortion, aggravated robbery and assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm (GBH),” she said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, commended the police for their commitment, dedication and bravery in tracking, arresting and safely rescuing a victim of kidnapping linked to extortion. Asaneng said the police worked tirelessly, before arresting the suspects at the hideout in the Free State.
“This arrest should send a strong message to heartless criminals that the police shall pursue them wherever they are and no resources will be spared in making sure that they are removed from society and jailed for their heinous crimes,” he said.
The Guardian 