A group of suspects from the Eastern Cape who were linked to a kidnapping were arrested during a ransom drop-off. 

The nine suspects were arrested by members attached to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (known as Hawks) after the kidnapping of a 62-year-old Tracey Fourie in Gqeberha. 

The provincial Hawks spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Avele Fumba, said the kidnapping victim was abducted and held captive for a week while ransom negotiations unfolded. 

“On August 25, 2025, the team strategically exerted sufficient pressure and closely monitored the situation. She was released unharmed. Within hours, the Hawks executed a precision intelligence-led operation that dismantled the syndicate and brought multiple suspects into custody,” Fumba said. 

The operation’s success was due to the close cooperation between the Hawks, Magma Security and Investigations, Crime Intelligence, and the Local Criminal Record Centre. 

Fumba said the swift flow of intelligence, rapid mobilisation, and coordinated execution. 

“This decisive breakthrough not only ensured the victim’s safe return but also sent a powerful message to criminal syndicates operating in the Eastern Cape. Follow-up operations remain active as investigators track down additional suspects believed to be linked to the kidnapping network,” Fumba said. 

Members of the public are urged to come forward with any information that may assist with the ongoing investigation. 

Head of the Hawks in the Eastern Cape, Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, lauded the operation. 

“This case proves that the Hawks will never allow ruthless criminals to hold our people hostage. Those who prey on the vulnerable must understand, we will hunt you down, dismantle your networks, and bring you to justice without hesitation,” Ngwenya said. 

robin.francke@iol.co.za

IOL

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