South Africa: Zimbabwean national kidnapped near Johannesburg Nov. 3 reportedly released Dec. 12

Event

A Zimbabwean businessman kidnapped in Centurion Nov. 3 by unidentified assailants was released, Dec. 12. He was kidnapped from his vehicle near the Midstream Mediclinic, located 35 km (22 miles) north of Johannesburg. The circumstances of his release and information regarding whether a ransom was paid are not available.

Context

Kidnapping for ransom and extortion is an increasing concern in South Africa, particularly in Gauteng Province. Between July and September 2022, over 3,600 kidnappings were reported nationwide; of these, approximately 2,000 were in Gauteng. The threat extends to locals and foreigners or those displaying excessive wealth. Criminal gangs and syndicates operate extensively and are the likely culprits in the recent case. 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.

Kidnappings in South Africa are mostly robbery- hijacking- or rape-related. Between July and September 2022, 1,400 kidnappings were related to carjackings nationwide, with 1,000 occurring in Gauteng. The number of kidnappings and carjackings has risen in all provinces except in Limpopo across that period. Due to ongoing socio-economic issues, crime rates will likely escalate in the medium term.