Swift Action by South African Task Force Thwarts Kidnapping Plot, Nets International Fugitives

Image Source: The scene where a kidnapping victim was recovered at a house in Diepkloof on 15 July 2024. Picture: EWN

Published by Everything ZA News

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – In a swift and coordinated operation, a South African anti-kidnapping task force successfully rescued a Zimbabwean gas tycoon from his captors and apprehended 14 individuals allegedly involved in the plot, including two fugitives wanted by Chinese authorities.

The dramatic events unfolded on Sunday when the businessman was abducted outside his Soweto gas distribution business. Acting on intelligence, the task force, comprised of law enforcement officials, private security personnel, and other specialists, launched a manhunt that culminated in the apprehension of ten suspects within 24 hours at a complex in Greenstone Park, east of Johannesburg.

Among those arrested were Liang Long and Ning Li, who were flagged by Interpol with a Red Notice – an international arrest warrant – for their evasion of capture by Chinese authorities since 2022. The meticulous investigation further identified Kenton Luke Khan, believed to be the mastermind behind the kidnapping. Khan faces additional charges for possession of an unlicensed semi-automatic firearm and ammunition.

From Left: Ning Li., Cheng Hsu., Liang Long via Orrin Singh/Eyewitness News

From Left: Alleged mastermind, Kenton Luke Khan, Mikyle Mahendra Pillay via Orrin Singh/Eyewitness News

Leon Peterson and another suspect were apprehended outside the complex carrying bags stuffed with cash, believed to be ransom money withdrawn from the victim’s accounts. A search of the Greenstone Park location yielded a trove of incriminating evidence, including multiple stolen point-of-sale machines and a firearm linked to a 2023 robbery.

Following leads, the task force intercepted a vehicle used in the kidnapping in Sandton, Johannesburg. Two occupants were arrested, and a firearm was recovered. These suspects reportedly confessed to their involvement and revealed the location of the victim’s captivity – a house in Diepkloof, Soweto.

A tactical operation at the Diepkloof residence secured the safe release of the businessman and led to the apprehension of the remaining two kidnappers. All 14 suspects appeared in the Lenasia Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, facing a range of charges including kidnapping, firearms offenses, and possession of stolen property.

Law enforcement sources hailed the operation as a significant blow to express kidnappings, a growing concern in the province. With the possibility of further arrests looming, the case has been postponed to allow for a thorough investigation. All 14 accused will be held in custody until their next court appearance.

This swift and collaborative response by South African authorities demonstrates their unwavering commitment to combating violent crime and transnational criminal activity. The apprehension of the international fugitives further underscores the expanding reach of law enforcement cooperation on a global scale.