Police Minister Senzo Mchunu praised Saps after officers rescued a pastor and his wife who had been abducted by suspects in full police uniform.
Four suspects are set to appear in court after being arrested for hijacking and kidnapping a pastor and his wife while wearing full police uniforms.
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu praised the Saps for successfully rescuing the couple and arresting the alleged perpetrators.
Pastor kidnapped in Free State
Pastor Phillip Mashudu and his wife Elsie disappeared last Friday while travelling from Bethlehem to Paris after being stopped by thugs in police garb.
Saps said a multidisciplinary team was working day and night to find reliable clues to the whereabouts of the victims.
The team arrived at the scene on Monday and found the couple in a “physically stable condition,” Mchunu said.
On behalf of the Mashudu family, Dr. Azwihangwi Maumela expressed her deep gratitude to the police.
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Police Minister Praises Officers for Their Work
According to Mchunu, the incident is a painful reminder of the challenges of maintaining public safety.
“However, it is also a testament to what can be achieved when our police service acts with determination, diligence and integrity,” he said.
“We would like to express our gratitude to all the teams involved; your continued commitment and professionalism have not only led to a successful resolution of this case, but have also restored a sense of safety and trust within our community.”
He said the safety and security of every citizen remains the police’s top priority.
“We will investigate allegations of possible police officer involvement and where police officers are involved, we will take action.
“Corruption within the Juices will not be tolerated and we urge anyone with information to come forward and assist police.”
The four suspects are aged between 31 and 41. They will appear in Sasolburg District Court on Thursday on charges of hijacking and kidnapping.
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The Citizen
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