A 33-year-old man from Driefontein village in Sekhukhune, Limpopo, has escaped from four armed assailants who allegedly kidnapped him from his home late at night and assaulted him before he managed to flee in Mpumalanga.
According to Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the incident happened at about 11.30 pm on Tuesday under the Matlelerekeng policing area.
“It is reported that the male victim was inside his shack with his wife and child when four unknown male suspects broke in. Two of the suspects were allegedly armed with firearms,” said Ledwaba.
Ledwaba said the suspects forcibly took the victim against his will and compelled him into a silver-grey Honda sedan, while his traumatised wife managed to escape unharmed with their child.
While driving with the victim, the suspects allegedly assaulted him several times using a firearm.
“The victim later managed to escape when the vehicle stopped at Koedoespoort in Mpumalanga province. He then walked through secluded routes until he safely reached his residence at about 3 am on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, and immediately alerted the police,” Ledwaba said.
A kidnapping case was opened at Matlelerekeng police station and has since been transferred to the Provincial Organised Crime Unit for further investigation.
The motive for the kidnapping remains unknown and forms part of ongoing police investigations.
Police have urged anyone with information that could assist in the investigation or lead to the arrest of the suspects to contact investigating officer Sergeant Ronny Hlakole on 076 998 7004, the Crime Stop number 08600 10111, the nearest police station, or use the My SAPS App.
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Jonisayi Maromo
iol.co.za
