In what appears to be another distressing incident of kidnapping in Thohoyandou, kidnappers attempted to force a man into their getaway car. The incident occurred at the Thohoyandou CBD, near Kismat Wholesalers, on Friday, 18 August, around 10:15.
A video clip of the attempted kidnapping went viral, capturing the victim, a 46-year-old Indian man, desperately struggling to escape the clutches of the perpetrators. For his safety, the victim is not being identified.
In the video, the victim is seen walking along a busy road when a white double-cab bakkie slowly drives past him. Suddenly, two men who were walking behind him grab him and attempt to force him into the bakkie. However, the victim manages to break free, and nearby bystanders rush to his aid. The kidnappers hastily retreat to their vehicle and speed away.
Kidnapping incidents have become increasingly common in Thohoyandou, with wealthy Indian families often being targeted for ransom. Several cases have been reported, and some arrests have been made.
In an interview with the Limpopo Mirror, the victim said he was still greatly traumatised after the incident. Recounting the ordeal, he said, "I am still shaking and trembling with fear. I was walking, minding my own business, not knowing that there were people following me. Out of nowhere, people began dragging me towards their car. I screamed, which attracted bystanders who were at the wholesale shop. I cannot even explain how I found the strength to escape from them. But I believe my screams and the presence of people nearby scared them off. There is no way that I can stop working as I have a family to support," he said.
Vhembe SAPS's acting spokesperson, Sgt Vuledzani Dathi, confirmed the attempted kidnapping. "The complainant screamed for assistance, and two suspects jumped into a double-cab and sped away, leaving the victim lying in the road. Nothing was taken from the victim. The suspects and the registration number of the vehicle are still unknown, and the suspects remain at large. The case is being investigated by the Provincial Organised Crime Unit," he said.