Steenberg police in South Africa rescued a 25-year-old e-hailing driver after he was kidnapped, sexually assaulted, and held for ransom by a group of five suspects on Saturday, September 12, 2026. The suspects, comprising two women and three men, contacted the victim's brother after abducting him, demanding R4,000 in cash for his release.
Police Rescue Victim Using GPS Tracker
Police responded to the tip-off and traced the victim to Southampton Road in Heathfield using the GPS tracker fitted to his vehicle, where they found and freed him. This was disclosed in a statement issued via the SA Police Service X handle @SAPoliceService on Sunday, September 13, 2026.
How the Kidnapping Unfolded
Investigators say the victim first met one of the female suspects the previous week through his e-hailing work. The two exchanged numbers and kept in contact throughout the week before agreeing to meet on Saturday, September 12, 2026. When he arrived at their arranged meeting point, the group ambushed him. He was kidnapped, and both female suspects sexually assaulted him during his time in captivity.
Suspects to Appear in Wynberg Court
Police arrested all five suspects at the scene. The two women are aged 23 and 34. The three male suspects are aged 16, 42, and 48. All five are expected to appear before the Wynberg Magistrate's Court on Monday, September 14, 2026, to face charges related to the kidnapping and sexual assault.
