Mozambican kidnapping kingpin tracked to Fourways, killed in shoot-out
The South African Police Service (SAPS) said in a media statement that an Anti-Kidnapping Task Team was following leads in the case of a kidnapped Pakistani businessman from Pretoria West, who remains in captivity.
Read more: Police nab suspected ringleader of kidnapping for ransom syndicate
It is said in the statement that a ransom demand has been made to his family. The high-level operation was launched at a residential complex in Carlswald, Midrand, where officers seized a Mercedes-Benz, a silver Mitsubishi Pajero, and arrested two suspects linked to the kidnapping.
The team then moved to Fourways, where a shoot-out erupted as officers approached. One suspect was fatally wounded.
He was later identified as 40-year-old Mauro Mucambe Junior, a kidnapping kingpin wanted in Mozambique and linked to multiple abductions.
Also read: Police rescue kidnapped businessman, arrest 11 suspects, and seize R300m worth of drugs
Police say a warrant for his arrest was issued by Maputo police in August 2024. An unlicensed firearm used by the suspect, along with 10 rounds of ammunition, was recovered at the scene. Police also seized four cellphones and four bank cards believed to be connected to the syndicate.
'The SAPS has full faith and confidence in the work of the Anti-Kidnapping Task Team to rescue the kidnapped businessman. Since January 2024 to date, the team has arrested more than 170 criminals involved in kidnappings for ransom. More than R1.2 million has been recovered,' said Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, police spokesperson.
The police confirmed their confidence in the Anti-Kidnapping Task Team, which has made major strides in tackling ransom kidnappings this year.
'The same team recently made a breakthrough in the murder of Olorato Mongale by tracing Philangenkosi Makhanya. The manhunt for co-accused Bongani Mthimkhulu continues.'
The operation has sparked praise across social media, with Fourways residents applauding SAPS for their swift and decisive action.
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Related article: Child kidnapping prevention tips for all ages
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