Police rescue kidnapped businessman, arrest 11 suspects, and seize R300m worth of drugs

The police operation achieved success with the apprehension of drug dealers who were allegedly responsible for the kidnapping of a businessman from a mosque in Helderkruin, Roodepoort.

August 1, 2024

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The South African Police Service (SAPS) have successfully rescued a businessman who was kidnapped on July 5, from a mosque in Helderkruin, Roodepoort.

The victim was found at a house in Lenasia on July 31, which led to the arrest of eight suspects.

A row of bags lined up filled with illegal substances.

The joint anti-kidnapping task force of the South African Police Service (SAPS), in conjunction with other law enforcement units, conducted a successful operation resulting in the rescue of the man, as well as the seizure of illicit drugs suspected to be crystal meth, with an estimated value of R300m.

Additionally, the operation led to the arrest of six additional suspects in a hotel, and two apartments, located in the Fourways area.

Also read: R600 000 worth of drugs recovered

The crime scene was visited by the National Commissioner of the police, General Fannie Masemola, alongside the Deputy National Commissioner for Crime Detection, Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya, and the Provincial Commissioner of Gauteng, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni.

Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, who is the spokesperson for the police, said the arrest brought great joy to Fannie Masemola, the national police commissioner.

A purple travel bag suspected of containing drugs.

“General Masemola praised the team’s efforts, vowing to continue dismantling transnational organised crime syndicates.”

“Well done to the team. Our men and women in blue remain hard at work in taking down syndicates involved in dealing and the trafficking of drugs. Commendable progress has been registered in recent weeks and we owe those successes to our dedicated police officers and our partners in crime, including private security. We will continue to come after those who are involved in the illicit trade of drug trafficking.”

Masemola is scheduled to deliver a media briefing to the nation on August 1. This is regarding their ongoing operations being carried out across the country to tackle various forms of criminal activity.