Court Appearance for Three Zimbabweans Accused of Kidnapping in Cape Town
Three Zimbabweans appeared in court for kidnapping a Cape Town man and demanding a R5 million ransom. The three suspects face multiple charges including assault and extortion after a coordinated operation resulted in the victim’s recovery. The court will address the matter during a bail hearing scheduled for March 14.
Three Zimbabwean nationals appeared in the Stellenbosch Regional Court on Monday, facing serious charges related to the kidnapping of a man from Cape Town. The accused individuals, identified as Luckmore Tawanda Muzhira, Takudzwa Trust Nzounhenda, and Itai Elvis Takawira, are charged with assault, robbery, extortion, and kidnapping. The court proceedings have been scheduled for March 14, during which a formal bail application will be made.
The trio, aged 28, 35, and 39, was apprehended following a coordinated operation led by the Hawks, in collaboration with the Directorate of Priority Crime Investigation and other law enforcement units. Their arrest took place on Friday, stemming from an investigation into a complaint regarding a missing person who had not returned home from a shopping trip in Stellenbosch.
Lieutenant Colonel Siyabulela Vukubi, a spokesperson for the police, reported that the victim’s family was approached with a ransom demand amounting to R5 million. A video was also sent to the family showing the victim with his hands tied and blindfolded, prompting immediate concern for his safety. Vukubi elaborated on the method employed by the kidnappers, stating that a WhatsApp message was sent, revealing the kidnapper’s demand and their intent to threaten the victim’s life if their demands were not met.
Quickly responding to the situation, the multi-disciplinary team of law enforcement officials successfully located and rescued the victim, who was found injured but in stable condition. Vukubi detailed the investigation, noting how diligent work led to the detection of key vehicles used by the kidnappers. The Boland K9 Unit played a critical role in stopping one of the suspects’ vehicles, ultimately leading to the victim’s recovery and subsequent medical attention for serious head injuries sustained during the ordeal.
In summary, three Zimbabwean nationals are facing significant legal consequences for their alleged involvement in the kidnapping of a Cape Town man, demanding a substantial ransom. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement led to a successful rescue of the victim, who suffered injuries but is now recovering. The proceedings in court will determine the future of the accused as they await a formal bail hearing.
Original Source: www.newzimbabwe.com
