Police in the Eastern Cape are continuing their search for two individuals who were kidnapped in separate incidents last week. The surge in kidnappings across South Africa has raised concerns, with these recent cases adding to a growing crisis.
The first incident involved 43-year-old Juan Yang, who was last seen on February 13, 2025, around 5 pm. According to Eastern Cape police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse Van Rensburg, Yang’s family contacted authorities after they were unable to reach her. Later, Yang’s vehicle, a white Volkswagen Polo, was found abandoned in Sakela Street, KwaZakhele. The circumstances surrounding her disappearance remain unclear, and police are actively investigating her whereabouts.
The second kidnapping took place the following day, on February 14, 2025, when 47-year-old Arshad Mahmood was forcibly taken outside his business premises in Korster, just before 6 am. Five unidentified suspects arrived in a black JWM double cab vehicle, and at gunpoint, they forced Mahmood into the vehicle before fleeing the scene. The police are working to uncover the identities of the kidnappers and piece together the events surrounding the abduction.
On Tuesday, the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation, also known as the Hawks, confirmed they are still searching for both victims. Spokesperson Avele Fumba stated that due to the sensitive nature of the investigation, they were unable to disclose any details about potential ransom demands. The authorities are focusing on tracking down the perpetrators and bringing them to justice.
This wave of kidnappings follows a notable case last week in East London, where a nine-year-old girl was released after being held captive for seven days. The child had been abducted while returning home from school in Buffalo Flats, and she was freed near a police station. While the exact amount of ransom paid remains unclear, the case highlights the alarming trend of abductions in the region.
According to the most recent crime statistics, South Africa has seen over 4,000 kidnappings over a three-month period, emphasizing the growing problem of abductions in the country. The ongoing investigations into Yang and Mahmood’s disappearances remain critical as police work to address this disturbing trend.
