Police are continuing their investigation into the recent kidnapping of nine-year-old Emaan Fatima, with more arrests expected following the appearance of three men in East London on Wednesday. Fatima, who was abducted on February 4, 2025, outside her school in Buffalo Flats, was released safely on the morning of February 11, almost a week after the harrowing ordeal.
The suspects, aged between 20 and 67, are facing charges of kidnapping. Hawks spokesperson Avele Fumba confirmed that investigations revealed the young girl was accosted by two unidentified individuals while walking home from school. She was then taken in a silver-grey Toyota Corolla to an undisclosed location.
A thorough investigation, led by the Hawks’ Kidnapping Task Team of Serious Organised Crime, in collaboration with East London Public Order Police, the East London Flying Squad, and Provincial Hostage Negotiators, resulted in the arrest of the men. The victim was found unharmed near a local police station shortly after the authorities acted on the leads from their investigation.
The three suspects appeared in the East London Magistrate’s Court, where the case was adjourned to February 19 for a formal bail application. Fumba added that more arrests are expected as the investigation continues to unfold.
This case follows a worrying trend of kidnappings in the Eastern Cape, with authorities focusing on dismantling networks responsible for such crimes. In a related incident earlier this week, 74-year-old Ebrahim Moosa was kidnapped from outside his workplace in Cuyler Street, Kruisrivier, on Tuesday morning. However, within 24 hours, he was safely released in Kwazakele. Moosa is currently receiving medical treatment, though police have withheld further details as the investigation into his case progresses.
Both cases highlight a rising concern over kidnapping incidents in the region, prompting police to intensify their efforts to bring the culprits to justice.
