25 Jul 2024 | 06:16 PM UTC
South Africa: Authorities rescue kidnapped local businessman in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, July 25
Local businessman kidnapped on July 19 rescued in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, South Africa, July 25.
A prominent local businessman who had been held by kidnappers for about six days was rescued in Gqeberha by authorities during the early hours of July 25; the abductee was unharmed at the time of his release. The kidnapping took place at about 06:00 July 19 when a group of unidentified assailants abducted the victim from his vehicle outside of his place of business in Korsten, a northern suburb of Gqeberha. It remains unclear whether authorities paid the ZAR 10,000 ransom demanded by the kidnappers; preliminary information suggests that the perpetrators may still be at large.
Maintain a low public profile and avoid outward displays of wealth, particularly if traveling alone and in higher-risk locations. Be alert to suspicious persons and activity. Vary routes regularly. Do not discuss plans and routes publicly.
Kidnapping for ransom and extortion of local business people and their family members is an increasing concern in South Africa, including the Eastern Cape Province. Approximately 4,500 kidnapping cases were reported in South Africa in late 2023, of which 213 occurred in Eastern Cape. Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal provinces, however, have the highest overall incidence of kidnapping. Besides South African nationals, members of local immigrant communities have also been specifically targeted. Expats and foreign travelers are also potential targets due to the perception of wealth.
