By REGINALD KANYANE
29 January 2025- Five foreign nationals briefly appeared at Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court for kidnapping, unlawful possession of an unlicensed firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition and extortion. It is alleged that, Afghan national Maisa Hussain (24), Pakistan nationals Gulfam Azam (29), Yasir Mahmood (29), Bilawal Arif (30), and Faisal Khuoot (30), all residing in Laudium, kidnapped a boy (9), on 19 January 2025 in Laudium.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said a boy was allegedly playing with his cousin on the driveway outside his relative’s home when a car stopped nearby. Mahanjana said five suspects allegedly exited the vehicle, grabbed the boy and drove away.
“The victim’s cousin ran into the house to alert the family, who immediately reported the matter to the police. While at the police station, it is alleged that the victim’s mother received a phone call from one of the accused, demanding a ransom of R15 million for her child’s release.
“The ransom demand was later reduced to R6 million. Following an investigation by the South African Police Service (SAPS), the vehicle used in the kidnapping was traced to a shop in Laudium on 24 January 2025, where Hussain and Azam were arrested,” she said.
Mahanjana further said the accused then led the police to a house in Danville, where a victim (9) was found along with Mahmood and Arif, who were arrested at the scene. She added that later that same day, Khuoot was arrested at his residence in Laudium.
“In court, the matter was postponed to 29 January 2025, to arrange for a foreign-language interpreter. The NPA commends the SAPS for their swift action, ensuring the safe recovery of the child and the arrest of the accused.
“The NPA will continue to pursue justice in this matter,” said Mahanjana.
The Guardian 