Police say Moti’s relocation will not hinder investigation
Major General Sam Manala, the head of the investigation, as well as the Moti's family spokesperson say communication lines are open between the police and the family.
POLOKWANE – Even though the Moti family had not obtained an interdict against the police keeping them from speaking to the four boys who were kidnapped, Major General Sam Manala, the head of the investigation, says the family has not been excluded from the work of the police as they are also under investigation.
Zia, Alaan, Zayyad and Zidan were kidnapped at gunpoint on their way to school on October 20, and the incident made national headlines. The boys were released unharmed three weeks later.
Over the past week, residents were shocked at claims of an apparent interdict obtained by the Moti family to prevent the police from speaking to the children but Manala has denied these claims.
Read more: Moti kidnapping: Surprise interdict stuns police
Polokwane Observer spoke to Manala after a statement was released, supposedly from the family, through a social media page.
In the statement, the Motis confirm their relocation to Dubai and say the difficult decision was taken with the safety of the children in mind.
“Our boys came home to us but have not yet been able to live freely and without fear. We have been forced to make some difficult decisions to ensure their safety and well-being, despite the recent and sudden backlash. Ultimately, all of you were with us through the nightmare we endured, we hope and pray that we will have your understanding now.”
Attempts to confirm the authenticity of the statement was unfruitful.
Also read: Moti family: We relocated for the safety of our sons
Family spokesperson Keshia Patchiappen and Manala confirmed the relocation.
“There has been defamatory and totally fabricated speculation regarding the Moti family in the news recently. On behalf of the Moti family, I would like to convey that there is no truth to these claims. Under no circumstances was there an interdict against the police and the family is fully co-operating with investigators,” Patchiappen told Review.
She added that the family made the “incredibly hard decision” to relocate to Dubai as they felt that a change of environment was the best course of action to keep the family secure.
Manala said despite the family being out of the country the investigation continues and has reached an advanced stage.
“The family has assured us that the relocation is temporary and that they would be back in no time. Their relocation does not hinder the investigation. Initially we struggled with the cooperation from their side but now we are fine and the communication lines are open.”
