Zahraa Mohammed, aged 17, and Hafez Mohammed Bataviya, aged 19, have been rescued from their captors after weeks of being held against their will.
The kidnapping of Zahraa and Hafez sent shockwaves through the community, but the recent breakthrough by the North West police has brought hope and relief to their families.
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After 20 days of relentless investigation, the authorities successfully apprehended six suspects whose identities have not yet been disclosed.
The multidisciplinary operation leading to their arrest remains shrouded in secrecy, as the police aim to protect the integrity of the case and ensure a fair trial for the accused.
Thanks to a trail of valuable leads and tip-offs, the police were led to a property in the province where Zahraa and Hafez were being held.
Miraculously, both teenagers were found unharmed. They were immediately taken to a nearby hospital for a thorough medical examination before being reunited with their families.
Currently, six suspects are in custody and are expected to appear in court once the police finalize the charge sheet for handover to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
The incident occurred on Wednesday, 6th March 2024, when Zahraa and Hafez were on their way to school in Hartbeesportdam. Their journey was abruptly interrupted when their vehicle was rear-ended by a maroon Audi A3.
Two armed men emerged from the Audi and forced the cousins into a white Volkswagen Polo GTI, which then sped away, leaving behind the kidnapped teenagers’ car.
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Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Funani, the provincial spokesperson, expressed gratitude that Zahraa and Hafez were found unharmed and assured the public that further details would be released in due course.
This is a developing story, and we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
