Mpumalanga boy’s kidnappers demand more than R1m ransom in Bitcoin

Police are still looking for information that could lead to the discovery of a kidnapped 13-year-old boy, Kathlego Marite, and to the arrest of his kidnappers, reports Witbank News. Kathlego has been missing for two days.

Information at police disposal revealed that on Monday, May 20, at about 15:30, Kathlego was playing with his two friends at Frangipani Street, Tasbetpark Extension 03, Witbank. While playing, a gold Toyota Corolla with three occupants stopped next to them.

READ MORE: Cops seek info on kidnapping of Mpumalanga boy, 13

One of the men, who was dressed in black, with a green jacket, grabbed the victim to the vehicle before driving off with him. Kathlego’s friends ran to his mom and told her about the ordeal, and she in turn reported the incident to the police.

The suspects left a ransom note at the parents’ home, demanding 15 Bitcoins for the safe return of Kathlego. They have stipulated that the parents must pay the amount in the cryptocurrency. The 15 Bitcoin demand comes to over R1-million.

A case of kidnapping has been opened, and police urge any person with information that may assist in the investigation of this matter to contact Captain Africa Nyathi at 071 352 6007or call the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111.