16 Nov 2024 | 12:32 PM UTC
South Africa: Kidnappers release previously seized Somali national in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape Province, Nov. 12 /update 1
Kidnappers release previously seized Somali national in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa, early Nov. 12
Kidnappers released a Somali national early Nov. 12 in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). The victim was released in the Korsten area near his home, with minor injuries. The kidnappers had reportedly demanded a ransom on Nov. 11 for his release, but it is unconfirmed if one was paid.
The original kidnapping occurred Nov. 9; the victim was reportedly driving with a passenger at around 19:00 in the Gelvandale area of Gqeberha when they were blocked in by two other vehicles and held at gunpoint. The victim was robbed and seized while the passenger was left unharmed. No arrests have been made in connection with the incident.
Maintain a low public profile and do not show outward displays of wealth, particularly if traveling alone and in higher-risk locations. 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 in front of and behind you. Employ additional vigilance when entering/exiting a secure compound - parking, gated community, or underground. Do not discuss plans and routes publicly.
Kidnapping for ransom is an increasing concern in South Africa. While criminal gangs and syndicates operate extensively in Gqeberha, opportunistic kidnapping is also a common occurrence. Victims are often local businessmen; individuals of South Asian or Chinese descent are also likely targets, as are those from other African countries who also operate cash-heavy businesses. Victims have reportedly been assaulted and seriously injured during the commission of kidnappings and while in captivity. Though kidnapping mostly occurs in lower-income areas, some occurrences, mostly opportunistic, have been reported in higher-density and more popular locations.
Approximately 4,200 kidnapping cases were reported in South Africa between April and June 2024. Kidnappings in South Africa are mostly robbery- hijacking- or rape-related; kidnaps for ransom only accounted for under four 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.