WATCH: Kidnapped 9-Year-Old Cape Town Girl Pleads For Help In Ransom Video

A disturbing ransom video of kidnapped Cape Town girl Emaan Fatima is circulating online, showing the nine-year-old with her hands tied behind her back, pleading with her parents to pay the ransom.

Fatima was abducted last week while walking home from school. Community activist Simone Klaasen said residents are standing with the family. “The community is rallying behind Emaan’s parents. Everyone is desperate for her safe return.”

Watch video below:

Hawks Investigating as Kidnappings Surge in Cape Town

On Tuesday, Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Avele Fumba confirmed that authorities were actively investigating the case.

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“At this stage, our primary focus remains the safety and well-being of the victim. Given the sensitivity of the investigation, we cannot divulge further details at this time. However, we assure the public that all necessary resources are being utilized to bring this matter to a swift and successful resolution.”

Authorities have urged the public to come forward with any information, emphasizing that “every piece of information, no matter how small, could be crucial.”

Wave of Kidnappings in the Region

Fatima’s abduction is the latest in a string of high-profile kidnappings in Cape Town, the Eastern Cape, and across South Africa.

Last year, Alize van der Merwe and a Chinese national were both kidnapped and later released near a police station.

• Van der Merwe was taken on September 20, 2024, while traveling from East London to Port St Johns.
• The 34-year-old Chinese woman was kidnapped on September 17, 2024, between Elliot and Barkley East.
• Both were released on September 26, 2024, reportedly deeply traumatised.
• In another case, Gqeberha businessman Calvin Naidoo was kidnapped on July 19, 2024, outside his workplace by five armed suspects in balaclavas. He was rescued nearly a week later.

KZN Businessman Freed After 5-Month Ordeal

This week, KwaDukuza businessman Zakariyah Desai was released after being kidnapped for five months outside a mosque.

Desai, the owner of Desai’s Cash & Carry, was abducted at gunpoint by suspects in a silver VW Polo after evening prayers. Gunshots were fired as others tried to intervene.

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Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has praised law enforcement for securing Desai’s release, calling it “a testament to the dedication and skill of our officers.”

“We urge them to continue their thorough investigation to ensure that all those responsible for this heinous crime are brought to justice without delay.”

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