Key Points:
- The suspects kidnapped the victim in Tsolo after deceiving him by posing as RAF doctors.
- They held him in Klerksdorp and allegedly drained his bank account.
- The Hawks arrest kidnapping suspect and expect more arrests as the investigation continues.
TSOLO, South Africa — The Hawks arrested a 25-year-old man in connection with the alleged kidnapping of a Road Accident Fund (RAF) beneficiary who recently received a R300,000 payout.
Victim Lured With False Promise of Medical Help
According to Eastern Cape Hawks spokesperson Lt. Col. Avele Fumba, the incident occurred on Nov. 3, 2023, in Tsolo. Two unidentified men approached the victim, pretending to be doctors affiliated with the RAF. They offered post-accident medical assistance to gain his trust.
“Under this false pretense, the suspects kidnapped the victim and transported him more than 800 kilometers to Klerksdorp in the North West province,” Fumba said. “While holding the victim against his will, the suspects emptied his bank account and transferred funds to accounts linked to them.”
Authorities later found the victim and safely reunited him with his family.
Task Team Tracks Suspect Across Provinces
The Eastern Cape’s Kidnapping Task Team worked closely with the Hawks in the North West. Together, they tracked one suspect to Klerksdorp and arrested him.
“The Hawks are transporting the 25-year-old suspect to the Eastern Cape,” said Fumba. “He is scheduled to appear before the Tsolo Magistrate’s Court on Monday, May 26.”
More Arrests Expected as Investigation Unfolds
Maj. Gen. Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, the provincial head of the Hawks in the Eastern Cape, praised the interprovincial collaboration and the dedication of the task teams.
He said, “This arrest marks the beginning of a broader crackdown. We expect additional arrests as the investigation continues.”
Authorities have not yet identified the second suspect. They continue to actively investigate the case.
