Kidnapping victim rescued by police in Tshwane

A kidnapping victim has been rescued, and an AK-47 rifle with numerous rounds of live ammunition has been recovered in Tshwane.

The discovery was made when officers stopped a suspicious vehicle on the R80 highway near Rosslyn.

It's understood that members of the Tshwane vehicle crime investigation unit were patrolling when they spotted a white VW Golf 7 with five occupants.

When the vehicle was checked, it was discovered to be registered as a different make, raising red flags.

Police say the vehicle was then pulled over, and they found a man in handcuffs with his face covered inside.

Police spokesperson Mavela Masondo says after interviewing the visibly shaken victim, officers established that he had been kidnapped in Wonderboompoort earlier in the day.

He says the victim told police he was stopped by men using blue lights and a siren, posing as law enforcement officers.

Masondo says the suspects were arrested and are due to appear in the Pretoria North Magistrate’s Court next week.

“All four suspects were arrested and charged with kidnapping and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, as well as impersonating a police officer. They are expected to appear before the Pretoria Magistrates Court on Monday the 13th of October 2025. An investigation is underway to establish if the suspects are not linked to other serious and violent crimes.” Masondo added.