A Pakistani national was abducted by two men who entered his hardware store under the guise of customers.
A Pakistani national and businessman, Saqlain Ali, was kidnapped yesterday afternoon outside his hardware store in eMalahleni. The abduction occurred just after 3:00 PM, when Ali was taken from his shop located in the Central Business District (CBD).
Imtiaz Ahmed, a spokesperson for the local Pakistani community, reported that two men entered Ali’s hardware store under the pretense of being customers. One of the men inquired about Ali’s whereabouts, directing him to move to another area of the store. It was then that more men entered, forcibly grabbed Ali, and bundled him into a waiting vehicle before speeding off.
Imtiaz Ahmed: Image Source
A lookout was issued for two vehicles believed to be involved in the kidnapping: a white Toyota Fortuner and a silver Land Rover. The alert was broadcasted over the Zello communication channel, urging the public to be on the lookout.
In response to the abduction, the Pakistani community quickly gathered at the Witbank Police Station to demand action and encourage anyone with information to come forward. Authorities are urging the public to assist with any leads that could help locate the businessman. Anyone with information about the kidnapping is encouraged to contact Imtiaz Ahmed at 072 379 9786.
