Kidnapping ringleader intercepted at OR Tambo International Airport

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Police arrested a 40-year-old Zambian national who was intercepted as he arrived in the country from Zambia at the OR Tambo International Airport on Sunday morning.

According to police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, they have been keeping a close watch on the suspect’s movement who is believed to be one of the ringleaders behind a kidnapping for ransom syndicate targeting businessmen in South Africa.

She further confirmed that the suspect is specifically linked to the kidnapping of a 63-year-old businessman. 

“The businessman was kidnapped in Helderkruin, Roodepoort in July. He was rescued on the same day that police made the discovery of R300 million worth of crystal meth at two properties in Fourways and a hotel in Bruma.

“He is also believed to be a key figure in the R300 million crystal meth drugs that were seized.

“Police have been tracking the suspect and upon arrival at the OR Tambo airport, he was arrested by a multidisciplinary team led by SAPS anti-kidnapping task team, counter intelligence, detectives, JMPD K-9 unit, Flying Squad and private security,” Mathe explained.

The suspect is expected to be charged with eight other suspects who were arrested for the kidnapping of the businessman and the drug bust. 

Meanwhile, a police sergeant is among three suspected armed robbers who were shot and fatally wounded in a shootout with police in two separate shooting incidents in Ntuzuma on Sunday afternoon.

KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said at least six suspects, some dressed in police uniform and others wearing pieces of police uniform, reportedly stormed into a store in Richmond.

“They held the shop owner and the staff at gunpoint, before robbing the victims of their firearms, undisclosed amount of money and other items.

“Police operationalised intelligence and the two vehicles which were spotted fleeing from the crime scene were traced to a residence on Mgwenya Avenue in Lindelani.

“When the suspects realised the presence of the police, they opened fire as they ran out of the house.

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“Two suspects were shot and fatally wounded at the scene. They were both found wearing police headdresses. One of them was also in possession of a police firearm and a police bullet proof vest,” he stated.

Col. Netshiunda highlighted that another police bullet proof vest and a police raincoat were found inside the house.

He added; “A vehicle belonging to a police officer, who had just reported off duty earlier in the morning from his night shift at KwaMashu police station, was found at the scene.”