Department of Social Development Strengthens Efforts to Protect Children from Trafficking
July 31, 2024Tragic Bus-Train Collision Claims Lives of Five Students in Mpumalanga
August 1, 2024
By Thabiso NKUNA
Sibongokuhle Nelisiwe Mkhwanazi (21), Caleb Kamahelo Sebatane (23), Thabang Elim Mndebele (35), Dineo Masesi Zondo (41), Dumisane Zondo (33), Nkosingiphile Emelda Nkosi (48), and Mpumelelo Patricia Mkhize (42) have been remanded in custody by the Kriel Magistrate Court following their involvement in the kidnapping of a minor.
The incident took place on Monday, 22 July 2024, at a high school in Kriel, Mpumalanga. The accused allegedly contacted the victim’s mother, a businesswoman, demanding a ransom of R200,000 for the release of her child. The mother, unable to meet the demand, offered R9,000, which she was instructed to deposit into three separate bank accounts via cash send. Once the money was deposited, the suspects withdrew the funds.
The investigation led authorities to Vorsloorus and Kriel, where the accused were apprehended. They have appeared in Kriel Magistrate Court twice and are scheduled to appear again on 2 August 2024. Three of the accused are in the process of appointing private lawyers, while the remaining four have opted for state assistance. All seven suspects remain in custody as the investigation continues.
