A coordinated strike by the South African Police Service (SAPS) Provincial Anti-Hijacking Task Team and a private local security firm has resulted in the safe recovery of two kidnapping victims and the apprehension of three alleged perpetrators. The multi-disciplinary operation, which also led to the recovery of a stolen vehicle and illegal weapons, was executed on Thursday, June 4, 2026.
Triggered by intelligence concerning a carjacking and abduction in the Kabokweni area, authorities tracked the criminals to a residence in Manyeveni. During the raid on the property, police freed the two captives and took three suspects—ranging in age from 28 to 35—into custody.
Investigators revealed that the abducted pair was held for ransom. The male victim was allegedly coerced into transferring roughly R86,000 from his bank account to the captors, who were reportedly plotting to extort an even larger sum of money.
The police sweep extended beyond the Manyeveni residence to a tavern in Malekutu, where officers located and impounded the victims’ stolen vehicle, identified as a white Ford Ranger bakkie. A search connected to the broader operation also yielded the confiscation of multiple cellular phones, two prohibited firearms, and live ammunition.
The trio is currently detained and will make an imminent court appearance. They are jointly facing a severe docket of charges, encompassing carjacking, kidnapping, robbery with aggravating circumstances, possession of prohibited firearms, and the unlawful possession of ammunition.
Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, Mpumalanga’s Acting Provincial Commissioner for SAPS, lauded the task team and the private security personnel for their intervention. He highlighted their rapid deployment and ongoing dedication to neutralizing violent and serious criminal syndicates in the province.