Police rescued a Chinese man, who was kidnapped in Qonce (formally King Williams Town) on July 27, and arrested three suspects on August 1, while his brother who was also kidnapped while paying the victim’s ransom, is still missing.
According to police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa, members attached to the East London Detectives, K9 together with private security officials operationalised and followed the information that led them to a house of a taxi owner in Palana Location, Mooiplaas outside East London.
“When police approached the house, they tactically entered, and the Chinese man who was kidnapped in Qonce on July 27, was found in the house unharmed,” said Mawisa.
She further said that during his kidnapping, ransom was demanded and paid by the victim’s brother.
Mawisa said the victim’s brother was also kidnapped and has not yet been found or released.
“Police investigation is underway, and more suspects are imminent,” said Mawisa.
“Upon searching, they recovered a shotgun, 11 boxes of ammunition in different calibers, a safe, and suspected stolen property.”
Mawisa said the trio have been charged with kidnapping, possession of an unlicensed firearm and several ammunition, and possession of suspected stolen property.
She said they will appear at the East London Magistrate court soon.
The Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene has commended the members for arresting the suspects within a week after the incident occurred and that the victim was rescued.
“As we continue to mitigate cases of kidnapping, swift arrests of perpetrators are sending a message that the police are determined to deal harshly with this scourge,” said Mene.
