A woman who was allegedly kidnapped at gunpoint while on her way to deposit money in Thohoyandou was found days later tied up inside an abandoned building that was previously used as a bakery in Njhakanjhaka, near Elim.
The incident was reported to Waterval police on Friday, 12 June, leading to the opening of kidnapping and robbery cases.
The woman was reportedly found by a community member who had gone to relieve himself near the abandoned building. After making the discovery, he alerted members of the Njhakanjhaka Traditional Council, who in turn notified police.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the victim, from Makwarela, was abducted on Monday, 8 June, at the Thohoyandou Venda Plaza shopping centre. Vhembe police spokesperson Captain Vuledzani Dathi said she had been on her way to deposit R7,000 when she was approached by two armed men.
“The suspects allegedly threatened her with firearms before forcing her into an unknown vehicle against her will,” Dathi said. He added that the suspects allegedly took the victim to an unknown house, where she was held captive for several days. During the ordeal, they reportedly robbed her of R7,000 in cash and her cellphone.
Police later received a call from community members reporting that a woman had been seen inside the abandoned building. Officers who responded found her with her hands and legs tied and reportedly unable to speak.
She was taken to Elim Hospital for medical examination and treatment. Police confirmed that she has since been identified and her next of kin have been informed. She remains in hospital.
The kidnapping and robbery cases will be investigated by Thohoyandou detectives, as the alleged offences originated within their policing area.
The suspects have not yet been identified. Police said investigations are continuing and detectives are following up on leads. Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is urged to contact the nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.