KEY POINTS
- Two suspects were arrested in Durban for house robbery and kidnapping.
- The victims were released unharmed, but money was stolen from their accounts.
- Police are continuing to search for additional suspects involved in the crime.
Two suspects have been arrested in connection with a house robbery and kidnapping incident that took place in the Sundumbili policing area near Durban.
KwaZulu-Natal police, in collaboration with private security teams, launched an intensive search following the crime, which occurred in the early hours of February 21.
Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said the suspects allegedly broke into a home, robbed the residents, and abducted three family members—a male victim and two 16-year-old girls—before fleeing the scene in a black and white Toyota Corolla.
The incident was reported at Sundumbili Police Station, and a case of house robbery and kidnapping was opened.
Swift police response leads to arrests
Later that day, at around noon, the suspects reportedly used a stolen cellphone to demand ransom from the victims’ family.
This prompted multiple law enforcement teams to coordinate their response. The Sundumbili Tracing Team, IPSS Isitebe Security, and Marshall Security’s Special Operations Team took part in the operation.
Authorities tracked the suspects to Dassenhoek and Beier near Westmead Taxi Rank. They arrested two men in possession of an unlicensed firearm, 14 live rounds of ammunition, two stolen cellphones, and the getaway vehicle used in the crime.
According to IOL, one of the suspects was found with the stolen cellphone that had been used for the ransom demand.
Victims released, investigation ongoing
Due to the pressure from police and security teams, the kidnappers released the victims unharmed.
However, a significant amount of money was withdrawn from one of the victim’s bank accounts before their release.
Police believe more suspects were involved in the crime and are continuing the investigation to track them down.
The court expected the two arrested men to appear in Pinetown Magistrate’s Court on Monday. They would face charges related to house robbery, kidnapping, possession of stolen property, and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
Marshall Security Managing Director Tyron Powell praised the coordinated effort between private security and law enforcement. He said their swift response ensured the safety of the victims and prevented further harm.
