Kidnappers pose as cops

Tsakane  – Four suspects posing as police  officers allegedly kidnapped a man and demanded ransom money from his family, and have been arrested, according to police.

  Police spokesperson Captain Kay Makhubele said the four suspects were taken into custody after identifying a suspicious vehicle that was parked at the Tsakane police station last Friday.

  He said upon approaching the vehicle, the officers found five occupants, one of whom later confirmed to have been kidnapped and robbed of cash earlier that day.

  “Police seized the vehicle the suspects were travelling in, two firearms, one of which was unlicensed, a police appointment card and other SAPS-issued items, including handcuffs and a blue light. It was also revealed that the suspects were allegedly demanding thousands of rands from the family of the kidnapped victim in exchange for his safe return,” Makhubele said.

  The suspects have been charged with impersonating police officers, possession of an unlicensed firearm, kidnapping, robbery and extortion, and more charges could be added, Makhubele said.