The South African Police Service (SAPS) has assured the nation that it has the necessary expertise to rescue victims of kidnappings. This, as it rescued two businessmen hours after they were hijacked and kidnapped in Gauteng.
In a statement on Tuesday, the SAPS said the two were rescued by an Anti-Kidnapping Task Team on Monday after their hijacking and kidnapping in Midrand.
The men were hijacked by a group of criminals driving a silver/grey Hyundai i10 on the premises of a car rental company. They were then taken to a bush along the R21 where they were forced to hand over their bank cards and pins.
The kidnappers then began withdrawing large sums of money from their bank accounts.
“A multidisciplinary team led by the SAPS Anti-Kidnapping Task Team were alerted and immediately mobilised. The two male victims were found in dense bushes and rescued. Their hijacked SUV Range Rover was later recovered in Tembisa.
“The SAPS would like to assure the nation that it has the necessary expertise to rescue victims of kidnappings and urge friends, family and bystanders to immediately alert the SAPS when they become aware of any crime, including an active kidnapping,” said the SAPS on Tuesday.
The police also encouraged “citizens to be more vigilant and alert of their surroundings and report any suspicious activities.”
“The SAPS applauds the teams involved in this operation which include the National Crime Intelligence Counter and Security Team, Police Emergency Services, SAPS Flying Squad, Gauteng Traffic Police Airwing and Vision Tactical Security Company.”
A manhunt has been launched for the kidnappers who evaded arrest and are said to be utilising the Hyundai i10 to commit their crimes.
Citizens are urged to be alert and those who have information are encouraged to come forward to assist police investigations. – SAnews.gov.za
