GQEBERHA – An off-duty police constable was abducted and robbed after three armed suspects allegedly stormed a guesthouse on Buckingham Road, Mount Croix, Gqeberha, late on Monday night.

The incident occurred at about 23:30 on 17 August, with Fidelity ADT reporting that its armed response officer later found the police officer on Mount Road shortly before 01:00.

According to SAPS spokesperson Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa, three unknown suspects allegedly gained access to the guesthouse and robbed occupants after they failed to obtain cash.

“During the robbery the suspects demanded that all the rooms be opened and took tenant’s belongings and a television set,” Mawisa said.

According to SAPS, after searching the rooms, the suspects discovered that one of the tenants was a police official.

“They took his belongings, tied and blindfolded him and took him to their vehicle and drove off,” Mawisa said.

Fidelity ADT said in a statement that the suspects were armed with two firearms and a knife. They allegedly threatened the receptionist before searching several rooms and taking cash and a television.

Fidelity ADT said the suspects then forced the receptionist to identify where her room was. She took them to the room where the police officer was staying, apparently in the hope that he could assist.

The suspects allegedly forced their way into the room, found the officer and abducted him, taking him with them in a blue Volkswagen Polo.

At about 00:46, Fidelity ADT officer A. Masingili (S15), who was patrolling Mount Road, reportedly noticed a man who appeared to be struggling to breathe.

The man was identified as the abducted police officer.

According to Fidelity ADT, the officer was not physically injured but was “shaken, traumatised and disorientated”. His wallet had also allegedly been stolen.

Mawisa confirmed that the police officer was released and is receiving support following the ordeal.

“The member was later released and is receiving the necessary support following the traumatic incident,” she said.

Fidelity ADT said Mount Road SAPS attended the scene and took over the investigation, with forensic personnel also attending.

Mawisa said an investigative team had been activated to trace those responsible and bring them to justice.

“The circumstances surrounding the incident, including the motive, are currently being investigated,” she said.

Police are appealing to anyone with information that could assist the investigation to visit their nearest police station or contact SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

Mawisa said SAPS management commended the police officer for his bravery and wished him strength as he recovers from the traumatic incident.

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