RESIDENTS OF GARANKUWA WARNED TO BE VIGILANT OF KIDNAPPERS.

On Saturday night, 19th  of June 2021, four suspects were identified in a Toyota Venture with no number plates in Garankuwa Zone 1, near Absa attempting to kidnap one of the unnamed community members that managed to escape unharmed. It is alleged that the teenager was pulled closer by the suspects asking for directions. Sbusiso Zondo, an operational officer  said that “A girl was walking to the shops at night when she was nearly kidnapped by four suspects in a white venture. Fortunately, the victim managed to escape unharmed. No arrests have been made yet, however we still on the lookout for this vehicle. We are requesting commuters and residents to be vigilant.’’

A confidential source said “It’s such a shame how criminals target innocent and young girls to make a quick buck.. This place is no longer safe. There is a white Toyota Venture and Chrysler Neon claiming to recycle old car parts. The Chrysler Neon was suspicious, I could not even take the registration because their vehicle had no number plates, they were wearing formal clothes. If they do not attempt to kidnap, they highjack. As Garankuwa Commuters we mustbe aware and report suspicious vehicles immediately, that could save a lot of lives”

Amandla Mbatha, one of the residents said “It is so heart-breaking how people have become so heartless. We no longer feel safe. We afraid of walking or going to the shops at night. I have seen this white Venture a couple of times around Zone 1, it is without number plates and with dimmed window.”

When Tsa Pitori online magazine contacted the victim and her family, they only gave consentto jave the story published  however they were not willing to comment for the safety of the victim. The local police are still on the lookout for this vehicle. No arrests have been made yet. Operational officers are requesting Garankuwa residents to be warned and vigilant. Residents are terrified and pleading that the SAPS needs to take control of this matter and resolve it as soon as possible.

By: Mbali Mabena.