In an unusual turn of events, two alleged extortionists have shot each other over money they had extorted from their victim. The incident, which occurred in Botshabelo, outside Bloemfontein, follows a harrowing hijacking and kidnapping that took place two weeks ago. The suspects reportedly fought over the stolen money before turning their guns on each other, leading to their mutual injury. One of the suspects has been arrested, while the other remains on the run.
According to Free State police spokesperson Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli, the victim and his friend were hijacked and kidnapped by the suspects and taken to a house in Section A of Botshabelo. There, the victim was coerced into handing over a significant sum of money. The victim later opened a case of carjacking, kidnapping, and extortion with the Selosesha police. Investigations revealed that the two suspects fought over the extorted money, resulting in both of them being shot.
On November 26, 2024, police received information that one of the suspects was driving a white Toyota Corolla with Lesotho registration plates. Acting on this tip-off, the suspect was arrested on Friday for an unrelated domestic violence-related assault. The suspect was admitted to a local hospital under police guard, while the second suspect is still at large.
The arrested suspect faces multiple charges, including carjacking, kidnapping, and extortion. He is scheduled to appear in the Selosesha Magistrates Court today. Provincial Police Commissioner General Babeile Motswenyane emphasized that combating extortion-related crimes is a top priority for the police, ensuring these cases receive urgent attention in the province.
