SAPS
By Mpho Moloi
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has demonstrated its expertise in tackling crime by successfully rescuing two businessmen who were kidnapped in Gauteng. The operation, carried out by the SAPS Anti-Kidnapping Task Team, took place just hours after the victims were hijacked in Midrand on Monday, 14 April 2025, sending a strong message that law enforcement is equipped to handle such crimes.
Swift Action Saves Lives
The incident began when a group of criminals driving a silver/grey Hyundai i10 targeted the two businessmen at a car rental company in Midrand. The victims were forcibly taken to a bushy area along the R21, where they were coerced into handing over their bank cards and PINs. The kidnappers wasted no time, withdrawing large sums of money from the victims’ accounts.
However, the SAPS Anti-Kidnapping Task Team, supported by a multidisciplinary group, sprang into action after being alerted. “A multidisciplinary team led by the SAPS Anti-Kidnapping Task Team were alerted and immediately mobilised. The two male victims were found in dense bushes and rescued,” the SAPS confirmed in a statement on Tuesday. The victims, though shaken, were safely reunited with their families, and their hijacked Range Rover SUV was later recovered in Tembisa.
The operation’s success was a result of seamless collaboration between various units, including the National Crime Intelligence Counter and Security Team, Police Emergency Services, SAPS Flying Squad, Gauteng Traffic Police Airwing, and Vision Tactical Security Company. “The SAPS applauds the teams involved in this operation,” the statement added, highlighting the strength of teamwork in fighting crime.
A Growing Threat in Gauteng
Kidnappings, particularly targeting businesspeople, have become a concerning trend in South Africa, with Gauteng recording the highest number of cases. The SAPS has noted that criminals often exploit vulnerabilities, such as targeting individuals at business premises or in isolated areas. In this case, the use of a Hyundai i10 by the suspects suggests they may be part of an organised group operating in and around Gauteng.
To combat this, the SAPS is urging the public to stay vigilant. “The SAPS would like to assure the nation that it has the necessary expertise to rescue victims of kidnappings and urge friends, family and bystanders to immediately alert the SAPS when they become aware of any crime, including an active kidnapping,” the police said. They also encouraged citizens to “be more vigilant and alert of their surroundings and report any suspicious activities.”
Manhunt Underway for Suspects
While the rescue operation was a success, the suspects managed to evade arrest, prompting the SAPS to launch a manhunt. The criminals are believed to be using the silver/grey Hyundai i10 to carry out their activities, and the police are calling on the public to assist. “Citizens are urged to be alert and those who have information are encouraged to come forward to assist police investigations,” the SAPS stated.
This is not the first time the SAPS Anti-Kidnapping Task Team has made headlines for its efforts. In recent months, the unit has successfully rescued several victims, including a Portuguese businessman in Soweto and a Pakistani national in Gauteng. These operations highlight the task team’s growing expertise in handling complex kidnapping cases, often without ransom payments.
Building Public Confidence
The SAPS’s swift response in Midrand is part of a broader effort to rebuild trust in law enforcement. Kidnapping cases have shaken communities, but the police are working hard to show they have the skills and resources to protect South Africans. By involving private security firms like Vision Tactical and leveraging air support, the SAPS is adopting a modern, collaborative approach to crime-fighting.
The police also emphasized the importance of community involvement. Friends, family, and bystanders play a critical role in reporting crimes early, which can make all the difference in rescue operations. Simple actions, like noting suspicious vehicles or behaviour, can provide vital clues for investigators.
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