Cases of kidnapping are on the rise nationally, locally a student is one of the latest victims of this crime spree.
According to the crime statistics published by the South African Police Service, 233 cases of kidnapping were reported in the province between April and June. In nine of these a ransom was demanded, five involved cases of extortion and one was classified as human trafficking.
On Thursday 3 October, a local student was walking from a restaurant in Plein Street to her residence when she was snatched. According to police the 20-year-old was walking at approximately 02:40 when an unknown vehicle with two occupants stopped and kidnapped her. “In the course of events the suspects demanded a ransom from the family of the hostage,” Captain Frederick C van Wyk, a provincial spokesperson, said in a statement. “They immediately paid the money after which the victim was released on Friday (4 October).”
After the ordeal she was immediately taken for medical examination.
Two suspects have since been charged with kidnapping and extortion after investigation by the multi-disciplinary team led to the arrest of the suspects.
“Information was followed-up on and a vehicle of interest, a black BMW, was identified during preliminary investigation. The Licence Plate Recognition system was activated and the vehicle was successfully traced to the George area.
“Two foreign national men, aged 24 and 25, were found in the vehicle and detained for further investigation. An undisclosed amount of cash was found in the car including the phone used.”
The suspects have since appeared in the Stellenbosch Magistrates’ Court with their next appears set to be on Wednesday 23 October.
This is not the first case of kidnapping in the area. In June earlier this year, a 32-year-old suspect appeared in the Caledon Magistrates’ Court after being arrested in connection with the kidnapping of two students on the Franschhoek Pass.
In two separate incidents a cyclist and two University of Stellenbosch students were kidnapped and a ransom sought for their release. In both cases the abductors travelled to Grabouw with the victims.
Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of Communications and Marketing at the Fidelity Services Group, advised Stellenbosch students always to be aware of your surroundings. “If you spot anything suspicious please alert the police or your security company immediately,” she added. “Keep all doors and windows locked, don’t walk around alone at night, and avoid any dark or unfamiliar areas at night or any surrounding that makes you feel uncomfortable.”
Captain Nathalie Martin, spokesperson of Stellenbosch police, urged walkers to avoid distractions such as headphones or being absorbed in your phone when in unfamiliar or isolated areas. She said in the unfortunate experience of being taken victims should try to stay calm, comply with captors’ instructions to avoid provoking them, as sudden resistance may cause harm. Also, avoid arguing or confrontation as far as possible.
“Attempt to escape only if you see a clear, safe opportunity. Premature attempts may make your situation worse.
“If you are in a populated area try to attract attention by making noise, banging objects or signalling passersby discreetly. Take action during vulnerable moments if kidnappers are distracted or you are left alone. Assess whether this may be an opportunity to escape or call for help.”
She added that providing as many details as possible can help authorities find the suspects. “Provide as much detail as possible about the appearance of the kidnappers such as height, weight, build, hair colour, skin colour, eye colour and maybe scars or tattoos.
“If you heard abductors speak recall any distinct accents, languages or phrases they used. Detail of vehicle such as colour, type of vehicle, condition (scratches, stickers) and also the licence plate is valuable.”
Martin added that if victims have received any calls, messages or emails from their kidnappers they must not delete them, and share all communication with the authorities.
