South African police arrest Zambian kidnapping mastermind | APAnews

South African police have arrested a 40-year-old Zambian man accused of masterminding a series of corporate kidnappings and a drug ring worth millions of rands.

The suspect was arrested on Sunday upon arrival at OR Tambo International Airport.

Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said the man has been identified as a key figure in an internationally organised criminal network involved in a kidnapping operation aimed at demanding ransom from wealthy businessmen in South Africa.

“The suspect is linked to a kidnap-for-ransom syndicate targeting businessmen and to the R300 million (approximately US$16.3 million) crystal meth drugs seized in Fourways three weeks ago,” Mathe said.

She said he was specifically involved in the kidnapping of a 63-year-old businessman in Roodepoort.

Investigations into the suspects’ activities are being intensified, especially in light of the recent series of kidnappings that have caused unrest across the country.

The suspect will be charged along with eight others arrested in connection with both the businessman’s kidnapping and the drug bust.

This arrest comes amid growing concerns about organised crime in South Africa, particularly as kidnappings have increased sharply in recent years.

Business leaders and authorities are increasingly calling for stricter security measures to protect those at risk of such crimes.

JN/APA