Durban — Police investigations into a kidnapping case suspected to be linked to four men arrested following a shootout were still ongoing.
This was as the four were currently out on bail which was recently granted to them in the Pinetown Magistrate’s Court.
They are charged with attempted murder in relation to three warrant officers.
Siphesihle Hlongwane, Sithabiso Shandu, Siphamandla Sithole, and Mondli Gumede are charged with attempted murder and being found in possession of a firearm and ammunition without a licence.
The men, who were released on R2 000 bail each on Friday, are alleged to have been involved in the shootout following a kidnapping and ransom sting operation were yet to be charged with regard to the kidnapping.
When police were sent the case number in relation to the kidnapping, spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Nqobile Gwala said that charges of car-jacking and kidnapping are being investigated by Inanda SAPS.
"The victim was found and the vehicle was recovered. No arrests made. Investigations are still ongoing."
Previously in court, the four men indicated that their intended plea was that of not guilty.
According to the State’s facts in the matter thus far, they say that the men’s charges stemmed from the manner in which they were arrested during a sting operation in relation to a kidnapping.
It's alleged a kidnapping case was opened, and contact had been made with the family for a ransom of R350 000.
A task team was formed to trace the suspects, and a sting operation was set up for a drop of a ransom of R40 000 on Dumisani Makhaye Highway.
According to the State, three warrant officers were undercover, carrying a bag meant to have money on the scene.
The State alleges that the team noticed a Toyota Yaris parked at the arranged meeting spot after one of the suspects contacted the relative, asking for the money. The occupants of the vehicle then began shooting at the officers numerous times.
When police returned fire, two of the suspects were hit. It’s alleged that a revolver pistol was in the car as well as one round of live ammunition.
The men are expected back in court on 12 December.
Daily News