A 40-year-old man was rescued this morning, 19 September 2023 from further physical wrath of the community when he was found with a 5-year-old girl who was reported kidnapped yesterday, 18 September 2023.
It is alleged that on Monday, 18 September 2023 at about 10:15, the complainant (26) was informed by her mother that her 5-year-old child, Sesam Gcolotela was missing. The mother rushed home and learnt from the community that they had seen the child leaving with a man. A case of kidnapping was opened.
This morning, at about 10:00, the suspect was spotted with the child in York Street in Madeira by the community. It is alleged that the suspect was sitting inside the minibus taxi with the child. The community pulled him out of the vehicle and severely assaulted him with stones and sticks. At that stage KSD Law Enforcement officials were patrolling and immediately intervened. SAPS Madeira Crime Prevention members who were also close by, assisted.
The angry mob increased in numbers and demanded the release of the suspect. The suspect was taken to hospital via ambulance for treatment. He is currently under police guard in hospital and will be detained upon discharge on a charge of kidnapping. The suspect is unknown to the child or her family. The child was also taken for medical examination and was reunited with her family.
A case of attempted murder is also opened in relation to the suspect’s assault.
He is expected to appear in court soon.
Police are urging all parents/guardians to remain vigilant and ensure that their children especially the little ones, are safe and within sight at all times. However, it is essential to remember that taking the law into your own hands, as in this incident, is not the appropriate response.