Moti kidnapping: Reports of arrests are false, police confirm
Brigadier Vishnu Naidoo requested that matters which are likely to place the lives of the four Moti brothers at risk, should be handled with the utmost sensitivity.
POLOKWANE – The SAPS has distanced itself from an article that was published yesterday which stated that two people have been arrested in connection with the kidnapping of the four Moti brothers.
Brigadier Vishnu Naidoo, spokesperson from the Office of the National Police Commissioner, described the article, which has since been distributed on social media, as “misleading”.
“As the police we are distancing ourselves from the article,” the statement reads.
Naidoo requested that matters which are likely to place the lives of the people at risk to be handled with the utmost sensitivity.
He further confirmed that Maj Genl Sam Manala, the deputy provincial commissioner responsible for crime detection, as the only person to report on developments in the case. “He will be available only for information that can lead to the freeing of the children and arrest of the criminals.”
The police added that anyone who publishes information pertaining to the arrests or progress made in the matter can lead be prosecuted, on the grounds of interference in a formal police investigation alternatively defeating the ends of justice.
Specialist investigator Mike Bolhuis in an earlier interview with Review said people are often irresponsible on social media and post without thinking about the consequences.
He spoke out about the misinformation that has been prevalent since the start of the case in which Zidan (6), Zayyad (11), Alaan (13) and Zia (15) Moti were abducted.
“The Moti was kidnapping was perfectly planned. If you really want to help, do not just publish hearsay or possible misinformation. Beware of publishing information if there is an investigation into the matter as this may harm the safety of the children. The posting of valuable information is adverse for the investigation.”
Mighty Tactical Reaction Services CEO Shaahid Valjie yesterday confirmed that the search for the boys continues and said the information they deal with remains confidential because of the sensitivity of the case.
