Edenvale gym kidnapping: Police bust syndicate after R2m ransom demand

<p>A woman kidnapped while heading to the gym sparked a Gauteng police operation that led to arrests and the rescue of victims.</p>

<p>Image: Supplied</p>

<p>A kidnapping syndicate was nabbed in Parktown, Gauteng, and is due in court soon. </p>

<p>Police said the arrests follow the kidnapping of a 47-year-old woman who was snatched while on her way to the gym in Edenvale on June 17, 2026. </p>

<p>Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said: "The following day, the victim's husband received a ransom demand of R2 million for the release of the victim."</p>

<p>Following an intelligence-driven operation, two vehicles suspected of being involved in the kidnapping of the victim were identified and placed under surveillance.</p>

<p>"On 23 June 2026, a drop off was agreed upon, and a team of various law enforcement agencies strategically positioned themselves and pounced upon the two suspects who came to collect the ransom money," explained Nevhuhulwi. </p>

<p>Three more suspects were nabbed not far from the drop-off area. </p>

<p>"The suspects were found with multiple cellphones in their possession. Further investigations led to the rescue of two victims who had sustained minor injuries and received medical attention before they were reunited with their families."</p>

<p>Police said one of the victims was a 44-year-old woman who was reportedly kidnapped on 19 June 2026 in Germiston.</p>

<p>The Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Gauteng, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, applauded the multidisciplinary team.</p>

<p>"This collaboration has proven to be fruitful, and we will continue to work together in the fight against crime and maximize police visibility for the safety of the people of Gauteng.</p>