An alleged kidnapping ringleader and main suspect in an R300 million crystal meth narcotics bust were apprehended at OR Tambo International Airport on Sunday morning.
The 40-year-old Zambian national was apprehended when he entered South Africa from Zambia.
Police have been closely monitoring the suspect’s movements.
The guy is thought to be a ringleader in a kidnapping-for-ransom syndicate targeting South African businesses.
He is notably associated with the kidnapping of a 63-year-old businessman.
In July, a businessman was kidnapped from a mosque in Helderkruin, Roodepoort.
The man was rescued at a residence in Lenasia on the same day that police discovered R300 million in crystal meth at two properties in Fourways and a hotel in Bruma.
He is also thought to have played a role in the seizure of R300 million worth of crystal meth.
Police had been tracking the suspect, and when he arrived at OR Tambo International Airport, he was apprehended by a multidisciplinary squad consisting of the South African Police Service’s anti-kidnapping task team, counter intelligence, detectives, the JMPD K-9 unit, the Flying Squad, and private security.
The suspect is anticipated to face charges along with eight other suspects, including three Tanzanian nationals and a German lady, who were arrested in connection with the businessman’s kidnapping and narcotics bust.
