Three suspects believed to be behind the kidnapping of a Chinese businessman have been arrested in Delft.
The City’s mayco member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, said the breakthrough was made following a collaborative effort between the police and their teams.
“On Friday, April 11 our teams successfully conducted an operation in Delft, resulting in the arrest of three suspects linked to the kidnapping of a Chinese businessman in February” he said.
Smith said the suspects face charges related to kidnapping, robbery, and other crimes. The group is expected to make an appearance in court on April 14.
“This operation showcases the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and inter-agency cooperation,” Smith added.
Smith said the case was another example of the growing concern of kidnappings in the country and shared the following data:
“South Africa saw a 260% increase in reported kidnappings from 2021-2023.
“During the same period, Cape Town reported a 17% increase in kidnappings, but accounts for only 6% of the country's total cases.
“Gauteng, on the other hand, accounts for around 50% of South Africa's reported kidnapping cases.”
Smith said since their intervention, they have been yielding more successes in finding victims.
“Our city has seen a surge in reported kidnappings, but we're taking action,” he added.
“We've formed specialised task teams with highly experienced investigators and international experts to combat crime.
“Consider using secure banking facilities like 7-day fixed savings accounts. If you suspect a kidnapping or have concerns, contact the Public Emergency Communications Centre at 021-480 7700.”
Meanwhile, the Hawks have arrested a third suspect linked to the human trafficking of a 12-year-old girl who was found at a house in Plumstead, which had been used as a brothel.
Hawks spokesperson, Zinzi Hani, said: “A multi-disciplinary Intelligence operation comprising of the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation team together with National Intervention Unit and Tactical Response Team has arrested a 35 year-old suspect for trafficking in persons. It was reported that during September 2024, the DPCI in the Western Cape, supported by officials from the Department of Home Affairs visited a suspected address in Plumstead, Cape Town. Twelve occupants were found on the premises, of which five female persons were identified as sex workers. The person found to be managing the brothel was identified.
“During the investigation, a minor female was screened and found to be a victim of trafficking. She was handed over to the social workers from Department of Social Development for emergency placement.”
Two traffickers were identified and warrants were issued for their arrest.
“Between March 12-24,2025, a tracing operation was conducted which led to the arrest of Rogers Mubiru, 34, and Fatuma Bashiba, 38, respectively,” Hani said.
“They both remain in custody and the matter has been remanded to April 17 for formal bail application.”
The latest suspect, aged 35, has since made an appearance in the Wynberg Magistrate's Court
The Provincial Head of the Western Cape, Major General Mathipa Makgato, has also applauded the investigation team and said “human trafficking was an evil form of modern slavery, a network that preys on the vulnerability of fellow human beings for self-enrichment”.
Cape Argus