Cape Town authorities successfully thwarted a R5 million ransom plot following a multi-disciplinary intelligence-led operation that led to the arrest of three Zimbabwean nationals on Friday. The operation also resulted in the rescue of a kidnapped Stellenbosch man.
The arrested suspects, identified as Luckmore Tawanda Muzhira (28), Takudzwa Trust Nzounhenda (35), and Itai Elvis Takawira (39), appeared in the Stellenbosch Regional Court on Monday. They are facing serious charges, including kidnapping, assault, extortion, and robbery. The court postponed the case to March 14 for a formal bail application.
According to reports from IOL, the victim was last seen on February 27, 2025, while visiting a shop in Stellenbosch. His sudden disappearance alarmed his family, who later received a chilling WhatsApp message from an unidentified sender claiming to know the victim’s whereabouts. The sender, referring to himself as a middleman, demanded R100,000 in exchange for information on the victim’s location.
The situation escalated when the family received a disturbing video of the victim with his hands tied and eyes blindfolded. The kidnappers increased their demands, insisting on a R5 million ransom for his safe release. The alleged middleman continued pressing for R100,000 separately, citing concerns for the victim’s life.
Upon receiving the ransom demand, a multi-disciplinary law enforcement team launched an immediate response. The task force included the Hawks, the Directorate of Priority Crime Investigation, the Provincial Organised Crime Unit, the Hostage Negotiation Team (HNT), and the Boland K9 Unit. Through meticulous investigation, authorities managed to identify two vehicles suspected of being linked to the kidnapping.
On February 28, one of the identified vehicles, a black VW, was intercepted by the Boland K9 Unit near Stellenbosch. Inside the vehicle, officers discovered the victim, who had sustained serious head injuries but was alive. Emergency responders rushed him to a nearby hospital for urgent medical treatment.
During the operation, police arrested the three Zimbabwean suspects, who are now facing multiple criminal charges. The trio appeared before the Stellenbosch Regional Court on Monday, where the case was postponed to March 14 for a formal bail application hearing.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Siyabulela Vukubi praised the swift and coordinated efforts of law enforcement agencies, highlighting the crucial role played by the intelligence-driven operation. “Meticulous investigation by the multi-disciplinary team led to the identification of the suspects and the rescue of the victim,” Vukubi stated.
The victim, despite suffering serious head injuries, is reported to be in stable condition and receiving medical care. Authorities have not disclosed further details regarding the suspects’ backgrounds or potential connections to other crimes.
As the case proceeds, law enforcement agencies continue their investigations to uncover any additional accomplices or links to a larger criminal network. Meanwhile, the court’s decision on March 14 will determine whether the suspects will remain in custody or be granted bail. The incident underscores the growing concern over kidnapping and ransom crimes in South Africa, prompting increased vigilance and law enforcement efforts to combat such threats.
In other news – Leroy Gopal takes on new role as breakfast show host on You FM
Zimbabwean actor Leroy Gopal is embarking on an exciting new journey in his career as he takes the reins of the flagship breakfast show on South African radio station You FM. Best known for his stellar performance in the classic film Yellow Card, Gopal’s move into radio hosting marks a significant transition, blending his extensive experience in entertainment with the dynamic world of live broadcasting.
Gopal is set to replace Bryce “DJ Ankletap” Clarke, who, alongside Themba “Biznezz,” will be departing from the station effective March 1. In an official statement, You FM expressed gratitude to the outgoing hosts for their contributions and wished them success in their future endeavors. Read More
