A 38-year-old professional assistant nurse was charged with kidnapping and held in police custody after appearing in Engcobo Magistrate’s Court.
According to the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation (known as the Hawks), Tyali, a professional assistant nurse at Mthatha’s Ngangelizwe clinic, was detained on July 17, 2024.
“It is alleged that on June 6, 2024, two victims were accosted by unidentified armed suspects who barged into their homestead at Engcobo and pointed firearms at them,” Hawks spokeswoman in the Eastern Cape, Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana, said.
She claimed that the victims were then forced into vehicles and driven to an unknown location, where a ransom was demanded.
“It is further alleged the suspects took the victim’s bank card and pin numbers where they allegedly withdrew cash in tranches and purchased expensive clothing from various retail stores.”
The Hawks stated that the victims lost approximately R1.5 million.
Mhlakuvana stated that the victims were released a few days later due to pressure from the authorities.
“During preliminary investigation, it was established that the accused divided the cash among themselves.”
The Hawks claimed Tyali was the first person arrested in connection with the kidnapping.
He was seen driving a white VW Polo and attempted to run when police approached.
Tyali is likely to seek for bail on Thursday.
The Hawks have stated that investigations are ongoing and that additional arrests are imminent.
