Two Suspects Arrested After Kidnapping Of 73-Year-Old Woman

The Hawks in the Eastern Cape have arrested two suspects in connection with the kidnapping of a 73-year-old woman from Kariega.

According to Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana, the victim was abducted on 11 August 2025 when two armed men blocked her vehicle in Crocus Street.

“It is alleged that the victim was coming out from the gate of her homestead driving a motor vehicle, where she was apparently blocked by a Volkswagen Polo. Two unidentified armed suspects alighted from the vehicle, accosted the victim into their vehicle and fled from the scene,” Mhlakuvana explained.

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Ransom Demand and Rescue Operation

After the kidnapping, a ransom demand was made, prompting an urgent investigation by a multi-disciplinary team of law enforcement.

Mhlakuvana confirmed that the woman was safely recovered almost five days later.

“She was found near Kariega police station unharmed and reunited with her family,” he said.

Suspects Arrested, Firearms Seized

An intelligence-driven operation later led investigators to several locations in Gqeberha, where the suspects — aged 29 and 31 — were arrested.

“Furthermore, the team reportedly recovered a huge undisclosed amount of cash, two vehicles, and two firearms that were suspected to have been used in the kidnapping incident and were seized for further investigation,” Mhlakuvana said.

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The men are expected to appear in the Kariega Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Provincial Head of the Hawks, Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, praised the swift work of the investigating officers.

He stated: “The team ensured the safe return of the victim and the arrest of the suspects without incident. Justice will now take its course.”

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