EASTERN CAPE NEWS - The Hawks’ Kidnapping Task Team, working in collaboration with the Amathole SAPS District, has rescued a foreign national who was allegedly kidnapped at the Mfula Administrative Area in Willowvale on 25 August.

The incident shocked the local community after the suspects reportedly shot and killed a 61-year-old bystander at a shop during the abduction. 

The victim was declared dead on the scene.

The suspects allegedly forced their target into a white Toyota single-cab bakkie with a CAA registration number. 

A ransom demand was later made, prompting the case to be referred to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) for intensive follow-up.

Through a co-ordinated effort between the police and the community, the suspect's vehicle was traced to an abandoned house at Mfula A/A. Law enforcement teams immediately responded. 

On arrival, officers spotted the vehicle and the suspects fled on foot into nearby bushes.

Police searched the vehicle and found the kidnapped victim alive and unharmed. 

The victim was safely reunited with his family. An AK-47 rifle with live ammunition was also recovered from the vehicle and seized for further investigation.

Ongoing investigation led to the arrest of a 29-year-old suspect on 29 August. He faces charges of murder and kidnapping.

The suspect appeared in the Willowvale Magistrate’s Court on 1 September. The matter was postponed to 9 September for a formal bail application. 

The accused remains in custody while investigations continue, with the Hawks pursuing all leads.

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