BLOEMFONTEIN – On Sunday 2 August 2020 a missing person file was registered at Parkweg Police Station. This is after a business man, Mr Shaiful Islam was reported missing. His white Toyota Hilux bakkie was found parked at the parking bay outside Parkweg Police Station premises. Investigation into the enquiry started and it became evident that the 43-year-old business man was kidnapped as the family received anonymous calls demanding ransom money.
The police established a multi-disciplinary team with various expertise and followed up on leads. Amounts demanded varied and it was clear that more than one suspect was involved. Yesterday, Friday, 14 August 2020 in the evening the police arrested the first suspect, a 50-year-old suspect in Hilton, Bloemfontein. His arrest led to the arrest of the second 36-year-old suspect and an additional 39-year-old third suspect. All of them being foreign nationals. Information then led the police to Springfontein where the victim was kept in captivity. When the police arrived at the house in Springfontein they found Mr Islam guarded by two South African males. The 24-year-old and 29-year-old suspects were also arrested as suspects. A case of kidnapping and robbery was registered at Parkweg Police Station. Reportedly during the kidnapping, the victim was also robbed of undisclosed amount of cash that he collected after delivering stock in Dealesville. The investigation in the case is continuing and all five suspects are expected to appear in court soon.
The Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Baile Motswenyane applauded the team for working around the clock and making sure that Mr Islam be found safe and be reunited with his family.
Members of the public who may have any other information concerning the case are requested to contact Detective Sergeant Thabo Prudence Litsoane at 079 606 7820; or Crime Stop 08600 10111.

Source: South African Police Service