Nelson Mandela Bay has witnessed an alarming escalation in kidnappings targeting business owners in recent years, with a particularly troubling pattern emerging against entrepreneurs of foreign descent.
This disturbing trend has contributed to the metro being identified as the most problematic district in the Eastern Cape, according to SAPS spokesperson, Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, as revealed in the second and third quarter crime statistics released on March 12, 2025.
This analysis examines the scope of the problem, the factors contributing to business owners becoming targets, and the wider implications for community safety and economic development in the Eastern Cape’s largest metropolitan area.
UD Express spoke to SAPS spokesperson Captain André Beetge, and Hawks spokesperson, Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana, to obtain relevant information, and they both shared their expertise regarding the matter.
According to Beetge, SAPS Sector Managers visit all businesses, including foreign-owned shops in the area of their responsibility, and regularly address safety concerns where a lack of proper security measures is identified.
“Regular patrols by crime prevention units also include such businesses in their patrol routes, and on the Community Police Forum (CPF) platforms the topic of safety of local businesses is a regular discussion point,” he said.
“All business owners are generally encouraged to join with their local CPF structures to keep being informed of the latest tendencies, as well as receiving safety hints and tips.”
Beetge concluded, “Where any person has a reasonable suspicion that they are possibly being targeted, they are invited to report such information to their local police station immediately.”
When asked about the Hawks’ involvement in kidnapping cases, Mhlakuvana stated that every kidnapping incident involving a ransom demand falls within their mandate, with the Directorate actively investigating all such instances.
He said, “The Hawks have noted the scourge of kidnapping incidents in the province, especially in Gqeberha, where both residents and foreign business people fall victim.
“However, although we have noted the rise in kidnapping incidents, the Hawks have made enormous breakthroughs in some of the cases.
“There are a number of suspects currently behind bars who are linked to kidnappings.”
He added that the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation is thoroughly examining all abduction cases, actively pursuing every potential lead to ensure that ground investigators can effectively work towards preventing the significant number of such incidents throughout the province.
Regarding intelligence gathering efforts to pre-emptively identify potential kidnapping plots against foreign business owners, the Hawks confirmed they are collaborating closely with all other law enforcement organisations, including Crime Intelligence.
This coordinated approach demonstrates that the Hawks are employing all available resources to combat such crimes.
“Our analysis indicates that the Northern Areas and townships are the most problematic areas of Gqeberha,” Mhlakuvana said, when asked to identify the hotspot areas.
Tips from the Hawks to avoid kidnapping:
• Be vigilant and aware: Pay attention to your surroundings, especially in crowded or unfamiliar places.
• Avoid isolated areas: Stay away from deserted streets, parks, or buildings, particularly at night, but also during the day.
• Trust your instincts: If you feel uneasy or uncomfortable in a situation, leave.
• Communication: Inform a friend or family member about your plans and share your location, especially when travelling.
Mhlakuvana concluded, “The Hawks urge victims to collaborate with the police during and after the incident in order to reduce criminal behaviour. Be cooperative at every step of the investigation, so that the perpetrators can be brought to book.”
