Three suspects are in police custody, following a foiled kidnapping and extortion incident in Epping on Monday.

The incident took place in Epping Industria 2 around 11:00 when a woman and four men were about to enter a shop.

According to the victims, they were approached and accosted by three armed suspects. Shortly thereafter, the victims were forcibly bundled in a Toyota Avanza and driven away by the assailants.

However, while en route to another location, two of the victims managed to escape, by jumping out of the moving vehicle.

Spokesperson for the City’s Metro Police Department, Ruth Solomons, said Metro Police officers stationed at an intersection along Jakes Gerwel Drive were alerted to the incident.

“A member of the public flagged down officers on patrol at an intersection on Jakes Gerwel Drive, and reported a kidnapping incident,” said Solomons.

Solomons said a search for those still with the assailants then commenced.

Officers were led to Langa, where the Avanza used in the crime was found. Solomons said the remaining two victims and a licensed firearm were found inside the vehicle.

Additionally, a silver Hyundai i20, also involved in the incident, was located in a nearby yard. Solomons say officers were able to confirm that the suspects had attempted to extort the victim’s family.

“The owner of the Avanza claimed that the victims were con artists, but officers soon discovered that the suspects had been demanding money from the victim’s husband in exchange for their release,” Solomons added.

The three suspects, all in their 30s, were arrested and are facing charges of kidnapping, pointing a firearm, possession of possible stolen property, and extortion.

The Elsies River SAPS is continuing the investigation into the incident.

The City’s Safety and Security chief, JP Smith, praised the officers involved for their ability to thwart the kidnapping. He referenced statistics by the SAPS, which show that between April and September last year, more than 7,900 kidnapping cases were reported across the country.

“This achievement is a testament to the effective collaboration between the CCT municipal enforcement services and our proactive efforts to prevent and combat crime.”