A well-coordinated operation conducted by the SAPS Team of investigators assisted by the Tactical Response Team (TRT) together with the hostage negotiators of the South African Police Service last night, led to the rescue of the abducted Regional Bank Risk Manager and the arrest of two suspects following a car chase and shootout with the police in the Westenburg policing area outside Polokwane on Saturday 14 May 2022.
The 56-year-old bank manager went on a jog in the morning at about 09:00 when he was allegedly abducted by the suspects not far from his home in Welgelegen on the outskirts of the City. The abductors later contacted the relatives of the victim and demanded a substantial amount of money in return for his safe release.
The matter was reported to the police and the detectives from the Provincial Investigation Unit, Crime Intelligence, Organised Crimes Unit, and Tactical Response Team joined by hostage negotiators immediately started investigations and gathered all the information in a bid to rescue the victim. The ransom money was then dropped off at the agreed pickup point. The suspects came driving in two BMW motor vehicles, white and black in colour, and immediately fled the scene after picking up the money with the victim still inside one of their vehicles.
A high-speed car chase ensued and the driver of one of the BMWs, carrying the abducted victim, lost control, swerved into the nearby bushes, and came to a halt. Two suspects were ultimately arrested after they apparently got shot. The others managed to flee the scene in the white BMW sedan.
The victim was also injured during the shootout incident and was taken to the hospital where he is in a stable condition. The money was also recovered and the other BMW confiscated.
The two suspects aged 25 and 28 are currently in hospital under heavy police guard and they will appear before the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court tomorrow, Monday 16 May 2022 facing charges of abduction, extortion, and attempted murder.
The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has lauded the Team for their excellent investigative efforts and a well-coordinated operation that led to the rescue of the victim and the arrest of the suspects.
We appeal to members of the community to come forward with any information that can assist in the apprehension of the remaining suspects. Anyone with information should contact Lieutenant Colonel Richard Boshomane on 079 894 5501, the crime stop number 0860010111, or the nearest police station.
Police investigations are continuing.