The Bloemfontein Police Flying Squad and the SAPS Parkweg Client Service Centre have arrested six men in connection with the alleged kidnapping and brutal assault of a 35-year-old man.

The suspects, aged between 18 and 40, were arrested in the early hours on Sunday 31 May during the ongoing Operation Shanela II.

Sgt Mahlomola Kareli, provincial spokesperson for the Free State police, said the suspects, who had been traveling in two vehicles bearing Lesotho registration plates, were arrested after attempting to flee.

“At approximately 02:00, members of the Parkweg police were conducting routine patrols in the Lourierpark area when they noticed two stationary, suspicious-looking silver vehicles bearing Lesotho registration plates.

“As members approached the scene, one of the vehicles sped off,” confirmed Kareli.

He said members acted promptly to arrest the suspects before they disappeared.

“The patrolling members immediately intercepted and blocked the remaining vehicle, securing the two occupants inside.

“A nearby Bloemfontein Flying Squad unit spotted the second vehicle fleeing and immediately gave chase.

“The vehicle was successfully cornered in a nearby street, where four male suspects were apprehended.”

Upon searching the second vehicle, police discovered a badly injured 35-year-old man concealed inside.

“Preliminary interviews revealed that the victim had allegedly been abducted from his shack in front of his family, following accusations that he had damaged another individual’s window.

“He was severely assaulted,” stated Kareli.

He said the victim was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment.

“Both vehicles have been seized as part of the ongoing investigation.”

He said all six suspects face charges of kidnapping, attempted murder, and malicious damage to property.

They appeared in the Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 2 June.