GQEBERHA – A 52-year-old woman who was kidnapped during an armed robbery at a butchery in Despatch on Friday 14 November has been released unharmed.
Police confirmed on Saturday 15 November that a 29-year-old suspect was arrested in connection with the incident.
According to police spokesperson Captain Andre Beetge the kidnapped woman was released on the morning of 15 November, after being held captive overnight.
“The 52-year-old female victim that was kidnapped during a business robbery at a butchery in Despatch was released this morning,” said Beetge.
ALSO READ: Woman (52) kidnapped in morning business robbery in Despatch
The breakthrough in the case came when Kariega K9 Unit members recovered the white Toyota Quantum minibus used during the robbery in North End, Gqeberha, at 18:00 on Friday.
“The 29-year-old male driver was subsequently arrested,” Beetge confirmed
The victim’s ordeal ended when she was dropped off in the Booysen Park area just after 06:00, prompting immediate police response.
According to social media reports by Atlas Security=, eight armed suspects entered the butchery and forced staff members to lie on the floor. One staff member was reportedly struck over the head with a firearm during the robbery.
“The suspects took R900 from the cashier before dragging her into a white Toyota Quantum and fleeing in an unknown direction. SAPS arrived on the scene shortly after the incident,” Atlas Security reported.
The investigation remains ongoing as police work to apprehend the remaining suspects involved in the armed robbery and kidnapping.
Beetge has appealed for public assistance in the case, stating: “The investigation continues and any person with information that could assist in this investigation can contact the Provincial Organised Crime Investigation investigator, Sergeant Classen at 072 731 9120.”
