Three people appeared in the East London Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday morning in connection with the alleged kidnapping of 9-year-old Emaan Fatima. The young girl, who had been missing for almost a week, was released earlier that day, following her abduction outside a school in Buffalo Flats, East London, on February 4, 2025.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Avele Fumba, spokesperson for the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation, also known as the Hawks, the three suspects—aged between 20 and 67—face charges of kidnapping. Investigations revealed that Emaan was on her way home from school when she was approached by two unknown individuals. She was then forced into a silver-grey Toyota Corolla and taken to an undisclosed location. A thorough investigation eventually led to the arrests of the suspects.
The case has been adjourned to February 19, when a formal bail application will be heard. Fumba also mentioned that further arrests are expected as the investigation continues.
This latest case is part of a concerning trend of kidnappings in the Eastern Cape in recent weeks. Just hours before this court appearance, another kidnapping victim was released after being held for just 24 hours. The community remains on edge as authorities work to resolve these troubling incidents.
