AN Empangeni businessman was kidnapped and held hostage for a ransom of R1-million last week.
Following an extensive investigation by the Empangeni SAPS Detective Unit, three Pakistani males aged between 22 and 29 and a 40-year-old South African were arrested on Tuesday.
Charged with kidnapping and attempted carjacking, they will appear in the Empangeni Magistrate’s Court today (Thursday).
According to Empangeni SAPS spokesperson, Captain Mbongeni Mdlalose, the 39-year-old businessman was followed from his business premises to his place of residence.
‘He locked up his shop, drove home and while waiting for the gate to open, a double cab bakkie pulled up and he was confronted by the armed men.
‘They got into his vehicle and tried to speed off, but could not get his car started, so they forced him into their bakkie and drove off with him,’ said Mdlalose.
‘The men made contact with the victim’s family and demanded a ransom of R1-million. Following negotiations, the suspects and the family settled on a lower amount and a point of payment was agreed upon,’
‘The police were contacted and informed, but on the day of the exchange the suspects did not arrive at the agreed destination. We believe they suspected a police set-up, ‘he said.
‘The men eventually released the victim and fled without the money.’
When arrested, the men were found in possession of 508 cellphones suspected to be stolen.
KZN Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Mmamonnye Ngobeni urged the public not to negotiate with criminals.
‘Always contact the police immediately when a crime is committed and allow the police to conduct their investigation,’ she said.
