KEY POINTS
- A former personal assistant allegedly masterminded a violent kidnapping and robbery of her ex-boss, using intimate knowledge of his routines and finances.
- Authorities arrested six suspects and recovered eight firearms within 48 hours of the crime, though one perpetrator remains at large.
- The incident highlights escalating risks of targeted financial crimes in South Africa, prompting calls for enhanced personal and digital security measures.
In a shocking case of workplace betrayal turned violent crime, KwaZulu-Natal police have arrested six suspects – including a former personal assistant – for the brazen kidnapping and robbery of her ex-boss in Margate.
The robbery incident, which unfolded on March 30, 2025, saw a 39-year-old man ambushed at his Uvongo home in what investigators describe as a meticulously planned attack.
According to Colonel Robert Netshiunda, KZN police spokesperson, the victim was approaching his vehicle on Constantz Drive when six armed men – accompanied by his former municipal personal assistant – launched their assault.
“The suspects grabbed the man and took him inside his house where they allegedly forced him to transfer several thousands of rands into his former personal assistant’s account,” Netshiunda revealed.
IOL reports that the assailants then forced the victim into his own car and drove him to an N2 fuel station, where they compelled further bank transfers under duress.
Inside the police operation during the robbery
The Port Shepstone Tactical Response Team (TRT) and local detectives moved swiftly, arresting six suspects aged between 28 and 41 on Tuesday, April 1. During the operation, police recovered eight firearms believed used in the crime.
“The former personal assistant is considered the mastermind behind this calculated attack,” Netshiunda confirmed, adding that one suspect remains at large.
Security experts have expressed alarm at the sophistication of the crime. “This wasn’t a random act – it demonstrates concerning insider knowledge of the victim’s routines and finances,” noted crime analyst David Bruce.
The case has reignited discussions about workplace safety protocols, particularly for professionals handling sensitive financial information.
The arrested suspects, now facing charges including kidnapping, armed robbery, and extortion, are scheduled to appear in the Port Shepstone Magistrate’s Court today. Legal observers suggest the former PA’s involvement could lead to enhanced sentencing considerations.
