Two men from Mount Pleasant have appeared in court after allegedly holding a Zwelihle businessman hostage, demanding ransom money from his family and then reportedly shooting and wounding the hostage after releasing him.
Captain Fadila September, spokesperson for Hermanus Police, said the victim was reportedly “summoned” to the suspect’s house in Mount Pleasant on Sunday 20 January, at approximately 20:30.
“On arrival he was allegedly assaulted and held at the house against his will,” September stated. “The complainant’s vehicle’s keys and cellphone were reportedly taken from him, and his family was ordered to pay money in exchange for his release.”
After the family paid the undisclosed amount, the man was released.
“The victim was reportedly shot from behind and sustained a bullet wound to the shoulder,” said September.
“He managed to run to MacDonalds at the Whale Coast Mall from where the police were called.
“The victim received medical attention at the hospital and was released.”
Two suspects were arrested on charges of attempted murder and robbery with a firearm.
They appeared in the Hermanus Magistrates’ Court and will remain in custody until their next court appearance.
September added that the Provincial Extortion Unit will be investigating the matter.
Extortion is when a person or organisation threatens to harm a person and/or his/her loved ones unless a certain amount of money is paid to the extortionists.
An example of this is businesses that are forced to pay “protection money” to avoid being targeted by criminals.
Anyone who has been the victim of extortion can contact the provincial toll-free extortion line on 0800 31 44 44.
