Well-known digital content creator kidnapped while using e-hailing service in Durban
The family of Simthande Myeza, a well-known digital content creator, has confirmed that he was abducted on Tuesday evening, June 17, 2025, while using a ride-hailing service in the Umbilo area of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
According to a statement issued by family spokesperson Lomsongaka Myeza, Simthande was taken shortly after boarding an e-hailing service vehicle.
KZN police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda confirmed a case of kidnapping was being probed.
“The victim requested services of an e-hailing vehicle, however the driver drove towards a different direction and along the way, two other men got into the vehicle and the three men took the victim to a house where he was reportedly made to withdraw an undisclosed amount of money, and was also forced to solicit money from family and friends,” said Netshiunda.
He said no arrests had been made.
Explaining the events leading up to the kidnapping, Lomsongaka Myeza, in a statement, said the e-hailing driver allegedly diverted from the expected route, prompting Simthande to request that he turn back.
“The driver reportedly became agitated and stopped the vehicle, at which point two armed men approached.
“One of the men pointed a gun at Simthande, while the other blindfolded him, tied his hands, and drove him away to an unknown location,” said Myeza.
He said the kidnappers accessed Myeza’s phone and emptied his bank account.
Upon identifying him, they allegedly made ransom demands by calling his family, friends, and colleagues.
Once payment was received, they allegedly forced him to undress, took compromising photos and videos, and coerced him into performing what the family described as ‘despicable acts’.
IOL News