Thabo Tladi (36), Tebello Mofokeng (31), Tshepo Mabe (29), Bongani Mathebula (33), Vusimusi Mkhoma (29), January Matsoso (34), Tshepo Mokoena (36), Thapelo Mokalanyane (29), and Themba Mokoena (38) made a brief appearance in the same court on Monday (27/1) on charges of kidnapping and were remanded in custody until their next court appearance. 

“The suspects were found in possession of a large undisclosed amount of cash, three cellphones, and a 9mm pistol,” said Free State police spokesperson Mmako Mophiring. “The motive (for) the kidnapping is suspected to be ransom.”

On Thursday morning at about 01:30, the Bluegumbosch community was woken up by a woman screaming for help, followed by the sound of vehicles speeding down the street.

After sunrise, a child sought help at a neighbour’s house, who decided to inspect the house. They noticed it was empty and that the child had been abandoned. Three children and four adults apparently lived there, and the neighbours immediately opened a case at the local police station.

Phuthaditjhaba police followed up on information in a house at a location in Beruit where four of the suspects were arrested, and all four family members rescued.

“The rest of the suspects had fled to Gauteng, but police were engaged and arrested an additional five suspects in Sharpeville,” said Mophiring.

‘The suspects threatened to kill him and dispose of his body’

Meanwhile, three suspects appeared in the Virginia Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday on charges of kidnapping and attempted murder after they allegedly abducted and brutally assaulted a victim (37).

The victim was at a car wash in Meloding on Sunday when four men approached him, claiming to be looking for him. They allegedly forcefully dragged him to a vehicle and brutally assaulted him with knobkerries.

“The victim was also strangled with a rope, stabbed with a butcher knife, and threatened with a firearm. The suspects threatened to kill him and dispose of his body in the Tikwe River,” said Free State police spokesperson Lorraine Earle.

Recovering in hospital

“As the suspects began walking towards the river, a police patrol vehicle intervened, saving the victim and foiling the suspects’ plans. Police were informed by the victim’s girlfriend and swiftly responded.”

The victim is recovering from his injuries at Katleho District Hospital in Virginia, she said.

OFM News mvh