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In a remarkable display of inter-agency cooperation, seven individuals have been taken into custody following the abduction of a 46-year-old Chinese businesswoman in Kokstad, KwaZulu-Natal. The suspects, ranging in age from 21 to 48, were apprehended through the concerted efforts of the Hawks from Port Shepstone's Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit, working in tandem with Crime Intelligence Technical Surveillance, Special Task Force, Durban Metro Police, and Counter Narcotics.
The incident initially unfolded on 30 September 2024, when the businesswoman faced an ambush by her captors as she was closing her bottle store. In the midst of the chaotic event, both the entrepreneur and her security guard were forcibly taken in her vehicle, which was later discovered unoccupied in the Bhongweni area of Kokstad. While the security guard was set free nearby, the assailants made off with the victim.
Following the kidnapping report at Kokstad police station, the Hawks diligently took over the case, embarking on a rigorous investigation. The perpetrators attempted to extort a staggering R15 million ransom, but after extensive negotiations, a partial payment of R305,000 was made. Despite receiving the ransom, the criminals reneged on their agreement to release the businesswoman.
Persevering in their efforts, the investigators sustained their rigorous pursuit, which culminated in the arrest of a woman connected to the crime on 6 November 2024. This pivotal apprehension led to not only the location and rescue of the kidnapped victim, who was then promptly hospitalized for assessment, but also to the further detention of additional suspects.
The authorities are primed to deliver the suspects to the Kokstad Magistrates Court on 11 November 2024, where they will stand trial for their grievous actions. With confidence buoyed by their recent success, law enforcement officials anticipate making even more arrests as the complexities of the case continue to unravel.
Major General Dr. Lesetja Senona, Provincial Head of the KwaZulu-Natal Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commended the unwavering effort and adept collaboration of the team, heralding a significant milestone in the fight against severe criminal activities in the region.