Three Zimbabwean Nationals Charged with Kidnapping in Cape Town Case

Three Zimbabweans were charged with kidnapping a Cape Town man and demanding R5 million. They appeared in court, with the case postponed for a bail application. Law enforcement swiftly acted to locate and rescue the victim after a ransom was demanded, ensuring his safety despite sustaining injuries during the ordeal.

Three Zimbabwean nationals, Luckmore Tawanda Muzhira, Takudzwa Trust Nzounhenda, and Itai Elvis Takawira, recently appeared in the Stellenbosch Regional Court to face serious allegations related to the kidnapping of a man from Cape Town. The accused, aged 28, 35, and 39, are charged with multiple offenses including assault, extortion, robbery, and kidnapping. The court proceedings have been adjourned to March 14 for a formal bail application.

The arrests occurred during an intelligence-led operation conducted by various law enforcement agencies such as the Hawks and the Directorate of Priority Crime Investigation. According to police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Siyabulela Vukubi, the operation was initiated following a complaint regarding the victim, who had gone missing after visiting a shop in Stellenbosch.

The victim’s family was reportedly contacted with a ransom demand of R5 million, and they received alarming messages, including a video showing the victim with his hands tied and blindfolded. Lieutenant Colonel Vukubi shared that the family was first approached by a middleman, who demanded R100,000 for the victim’s location while indicating that the kidnappers demanded a far larger sum.

Due to swift action from the multi-disciplinary task force, the victim was located and rescued from his captors. Although he sustained injuries, he was reported to be in stable condition and has since been taken to the hospital for medical attention after being found inside one of the identified suspected vehicles.

In summary, three Zimbabwean individuals have been arrested and charged with kidnapping a Cape Town resident, demanding a ransom. The prompt response from law enforcement led to the victim’s rescue, highlighting the effectiveness of coordinated investigations. The case is set to proceed to a formal bail hearing shortly, with public safety and the victim’s recovery remaining a priority.

Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com