The nightmare of a family member being kidnapped can arise unexpectedly, leaving loved ones feeling disoriented and powerless.
However, taking immediate and informed action can significantly improve the outcome. Alexandra Police station commander Vusumuzi Ngubane offers vital advice on how to respond effectively if a family member is kidnapped.
Read more: CPF to harness ex-convicts to combat crime
“The first step is to remain calm and gather your thoughts. If the kidnappers contact you, listen carefully to what they say and try to keep your composure. Often, they will outline their demands, which may include a monetary ransom.
“It’s essential to assure them that you will do everything in your power to meet their needs. Commit to them by promising that you will work to gather the money they are requesting, and ask for a few days to organise the funds. However, be cautious and avoid revealing too much information about your situation,” Ngubane said.
Ngubane said as soon as you hang up, it’s crucial to contact the police without delay. He emphasises the importance of involving law enforcement. “Call 10111 or visit your nearest police station to report the incident to detectives. The sooner we know; the sooner we can act.
“When you report the kidnapping, provide the police with all the relevant information, including all details of the kidnappers’ demands and the initial conversation,” Ngubane said.
Once the authorities are involved, they will give you instructions on how to handle further communication with the kidnappers.
“Law enforcement will mobilise a task team to track the suspects and provide you with critical support. Throughout this process, it’s important to maintain communication with the kidnappers,” he said.
Ngubane added that you should keep the police informed about any developments and any new contact you have with the kidnappers.
“Our officers are trained to handle these situations with care to ensure the safety of the victim and capture of the suspects. This co-ordinated effort aims to ensure your loved one’s safe return while apprehending the kidnappers.”
Ngubane urges everyone who may experience the nightmare of a family member being kidnapped to remain calm, seek immediate police assistance and maintain close collaboration with law enforcement.
“Remember, you are not alone, and professionals are ready to help you through this harrowing experience,” Ngubane concluded.
Also read: Linden police shares safety tips
According to South African law, kidnapping is a separate crime from abduction. Abduction is when someone unlawfully takes a minor from their parent or guardian for reasons like marriage or sexual exploitation, or to raise the child as their own. Kidnapping happens when a child, or adult, is taken away from where they were and held for ransom money.
What to do if your child is kidnapped: How to report a missing person in South Africa
The first 24 hours are crucial, and if you take action as soon as possible it drastically improves the chances of the authorities finding a missing child:
Step 1: Find a recent and clear photograph of your child. Make sure his/her face is visible
Step 2: Go to your nearest police station immediately to open a case (produce the photograph). There is no waiting period to report a missing person.
Step 3: Provide a clear description of the child (age, height, and weight). Mention what the child was wearing when you last saw them and point out if the child has any distinctive features or marks (such as a scar or a birthmark)
Step 4: Complete and sign a SAPS 55(A) form and make sure you get the investigating officer’s contact details.
Step 5: Reach out to other organisations or NGOs that assist with finding missing children. For example, Missing Children South Africa can support by distributing flyers with all the relevant information to their volunteers, the media, and social networks to help locate the missing person. They also remain in contact with the family and police if they receive any tip-offs or leads. This is a free service.
Step 6: Stay in contact with the investigating officer and let them know if you have received any useful information that can assist with the search.
Step 7: Get professional psychological help. Dealing with a child going missing is emotionally taxing and strenuous, so it is best to have someone to talk to.
Safety tips include:
• Teach kids how to call 10111 for help.
• Make sure children know how to make local and long-distance telephone calls.
• Teach your children to scream as loudly as possible, and that it is okay to do so when afraid.
• Never leave children alone in a car, not even for a few seconds.
• Establish strict procedures for picking up children at school, after movies, at friends’ homes, etc.
• Establish a family code word that only you, your child, and a trusted relative or friend knows. Teach your child to ask for the code word when approached by someone offering them a ride.
• Remind your children never to accept a ride from someone you don’t know, even if the child knows them.
Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.
Related article: CPF pledges to assist the community of Alex to fight crime
