Kriel – Law enforcement in Mpumalanga commended the rapid response of a diverse team in the case of a minor’s abduction at a high school in Kriel on Monday, July 22, 2024.
Four individuals, comprising one female and three males, made an showed up at the school.
The female suspect gained entry and summoned a learners under false pretences of the victim’s mother being unwell.
The victim hurried to the scene and was instructed to board the awaiting vehicle. Subsequently, the suspects escaped, alleging that the victim’s mother had an outstanding debt to settle with them.
A ransom of R200,000 was demanded. The complainant, a female entrepreneur, disclosed possessing only R9,000.
This sum was transferred to three designated bank accounts provided by the culprits, who promptly withdrew the funds.
Following notification to the authorities, various law enforcement units swiftly mobilized.
Their investigative efforts led them to track down the suspects’ vehicle in Vosloorus, Gauteng, ending in the apprehension of the four suspects and the safe recovery of the victim.
Further inquiries resulted in the apprehension of three additional suspects in Kriel.
The seven accused individuals appeared before the Kriel Magistrate on Thursday, July 25, 2024, and were charged and remanded in custody.
The proceedings were adjourned to Monday, July 29, 2024, to facilitate the engagement of legal representation, encompassing both legal aid and private attorneys.
Neither the complainant nor the victim were available for comment.
Major General Gerber, the provincial head of the Hawks, lauded the team for their swift intervention and implored the community to stand unified against the escalating trend of abductions.
Parents and educators were advised to prioritize safety protocols, ensuring that children solely depart with authorized individuals.
Schools were also encouraged to bolster their security measures.
On July 29, 2024, the suspects—Sibongokuhle Nelisiwe Mkhwanazi (21), Caleb Kamahelo Sebatane (23), Thabang Elim Mndebele (35), Dineo Masesi Zondo (41), Dumisane Zondo (33), Nkosingiphile Emelda Nkosi (48), and Mpumelelo Patricia Mkhize (42)—were once again remanded in custody by the Kriel Magistrate Court.
The case was adjourned to August 2, 2024 for further legal proceedings, with three suspects opting for private legal representation and four seeking state-provided assistance.
On Friday, the proceeding was rescheduled to August 14 for a formal bail hearing.
