Nkangala kidnapping: Search for municipal manager, driver continues after ransom demand

There’s still no trace of Nkangala District Municipal Manager Ms Maggie Skhosana, who was kidnapped alongside her female driver, Ms Gugu Mtsweni, in front of the district municipality’s entrance last Thursday.

The women were tailed by a white Ford Fiesta with blue lights before being kidnapped.

Upon arrival at the municipality’s entrance gates, the white Ford flashed its blue lights, resulting in Ms Mtsweni pulling over.

A man with a rifle then entered the vehicle and ordered Ms Mtsweni to drive off.

The vehicle, with Ms Skhosana’s wheelchair inside, was later recovered close to the Middelburg Mine towards Kriel.

The vehicle was still idling when it was found.

A ground search of the area was launched, but there was no trace of Ms Skhosana or Ms Mtsweni.
Ms Skhosana’s family has received a R5 million ransom demand.

According to specialist private investigator Mike Bolhuis, the notorious Boko Haram gang of Mamelodi might be behind the kidnapping.

It’s, however, unclear what the motive is, as Ms Skhosana was dealing with high stake tenders before her disappearance.

Mr Bolhuis’ team believe both women are alive after receiving voice notes alongside the ransom demands.

The kidnappers want the ransom in cash.

Further details cannot be released as they might jeopardise negotiations.