05 Nov 2024 | 12:41 PM UTC
South Africa: German national rescued following kidnapping in Graskop, Mpumalanga Province, Nov. 4
Authorities rescue kidnapped german national, arrest two suspects in Graskop, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa, Nov. 4.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) announced the rescue of a kidnapped German national in Graskop, Mpumalanga Province, on Nov. 4. The victim was abducted after withdrawing money from an ATM at a fuel station; he sustained injuries during the incident. Two suspects were apprehended.
Graskop is located near the Kruger National Park, some 60km (36 miles) north of Mbombela (Nelspruit).
Maintain a low public profile and do not show outward displays of wealth, particularly if traveling alone and in higher-risk locations. Do not withdraw money in public spaces; prefer ATMs located in secure, indoor premises. Be alert to suspicious persons and/or activity. Vary routes regularly. Avoid traveling alone on long distances, at night, or in conditions with poor visibility. Drive with locked doors and windows drawn, and maintain a safe distance between cars before and behind you. Do not discuss plans and routes publicly.
Kidnapping for ransom is an increasing concern in South Africa. While criminal gangs and syndicates operate extensively, opportunistic kidnapping is also a common occurrence. Victims have reportedly been assaulted and seriously injured during the commission of kidnappings and while in captivity. Mpumalanga is a hotspot for crime due to the proximity of both the Mozambican and Swazi borders leading to high levels of cross-border crime and the presence of many foreigners drawn to popular nature reserves, including the Kruger National Park.
Approximately 4,200 kidnapping cases were reported in South Africa between April and June 2024; 234 of these occurred in Mpumalanga. Kidnappings in South Africa are mostly robbery- hijacking- or rape-related; kidnaps for ransom only accounted for three percent nationwide. Security forces are generally under-resourced and have been unable to stem rising crime rates, including kidnapping, which has become an increasingly national security issue. Due to ongoing socioeconomic issues, crime rates are likely to continue to escalate in the medium term.
