By Jonhathan Paoli
ActionSA Gauteng premier candidate and youth forum chairperson were hijacked and kidnapped at gunpoint by a group of armed men in a brazen act outside one of their homes in Olievenhoutbosch, Centurion on Tuesday night.
Party leader Herman Mashaba confirmed that ActionSA Gauteng premier candidate Funzi Ngobeni and the youth forum chairperson Hluphi Gafane were abducted by a gang of armed men outside Gafane’s residence.
He said Ngobeni was visiting Gafane when they were ordered into the vehicle and then taken to Boksburg, Ekurhuleni where they were later found – unhurt.
“ActionSA is pleased to report that both Ngobeni and Gafane are unharmed but
undoubtedly shaken from the experience,” Mashaba said.
The party leader refused to comment on whether or not the kidnapping had any political
motives, but said that it was a sad, truthful indication of the state of crime in the country.
“You know, in this country, because of the high levels of crime, I wouldn’t want to speculate – I don’t think it would be fair for me to speculate. But one thing for sure, they
were hijacked or kidnapped with guns,” Mashaba said.
Following his rescue, Ngobeni expressed his thanks to the rescue services who located
him, and friends, family and supporters who provided support during this stressful time.
“I would like to thank all those South Africans for their concern and prayers last night.
Fortunately, Hluphi and I are safe after a harrowing experience. I’ll be spending time
with my family this morning before returning to work later today, ” Ngobeni said.
ActionSA said Ngobeni, Gafane and their families are deeply moved by the
overwhelming love, support and prayers received by party members and ordinary
citizens.
A case of kidnapping has been opened at the Olievenhoutbosch Police Station in
Centurion, Pretoria.
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