Three people have been arrested after a shop owner was kidnapped in Stellenbosch on Thursday. The Western Cape Hawks say the victim’s family had received a WhatsApp message demanding a ransom of R100 000 or he would be killed.

Three arrested for kidnapping

In a joint operation, consisting of the Hawks, the Police, the Hostage Negotiation Team and the Dog Unit, two vehicles were identified. One was pulled off the road near Stellenbosch and the victim was found inside. He was taken to the hospital with serious head injuries.

Ransom messages were received via WhatsApp

Lieutenant-Colonel Siyabulela Vukubi says three people will appear in a Cape Winelands Court this week, following the alleged kidnapping of the Stellenbosch shop owner.

Alleged kidnapping victim taken to hospital

The Hawks say the trio will face charges of kidnapping, assault GBH, armed robbery and extortion.