The Democratic Alliance (DA) welcomes the arrest of nine suspects believed to be part of a kidnapping syndicate in Nelson Mandela Bay. This major breakthrough by the Hawks follows weeks of fear in our communities and comes after sustained pressure from the DA for more decisive action against the rising wave of kidnappings in the Metro.
Crucially, this operation highlights the value of closer collaboration between law enforcement and the private security sector. Magma Security and Investigations played a pivotal role in supporting the Hawks, Crime Intelligence, and the Local Criminal Record Centre. Their involvement shows that private security companies are not only assets but essential partners in combating organised crime.
The arrested suspects are linked to the abduction of a 62-year-old Bay resident, who was held captive for a week while ransom negotiations unfolded. The Hawks confirmed that cash believed to be ransom money, as well as firearms, cellphones, and two vehicles allegedly used in the crime, were recovered during the intelligence-driven operation.
The DA has long argued that private security must be formally included in the province’s crime prevention strategies. Last year, we raised concerns that the Community Safety Department had failed to identify private security as a stakeholder, and we called on the MEC to engage directly with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA), which represents the sector.
Kidnappings in Nelson Mandela Bay are not isolated incidents, but a sustained wave of violent crime, targeting residents and business owners. In recent months, we have seen multiple abductions that threaten both the safety of residents and the survival of local businesses, with devastating consequences for jobs and investment.
Last week, the DA tabled a motion in the Legislature that would see a permanent 24-hour joint operations centre in Nelson Mandela Bay led by the Hawks, SAPS, Metro Police, and the NPA.
The motion also proposes that the unit coordinate intelligence, fast-track prosecutions, and provide confidential channels for residents and businesses to report information safely.
The motion has been noted and will be scheduled for debate and a decision by the full House of the Legislature later this year. While the latest arrests are welcome, it remains essential that the government commit to long-term, coordinated structures to prevent kidnappings, not only respond after they occur.
Nelson Mandela Bay residents deserve to feel safe in their homes, workplaces, and streets. With focused leadership, transparent reporting, and effective collaboration, we can restore confidence and protect our communities from criminal syndicates. The people of the Eastern Cape deserve leadership that delivers, and a future built on dignity, opportunity, and honest government.