Linked to Alleged Kidnapping and Extortion of Stellenbosch Student
CCNEWS
Stellenbosch:- The National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA) Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) has secured a forfeiture order from the Western Cape High Court to confiscate R89 000 in cash found in the possession of two men accused of kidnapping, extorting, and committing serious sexual offences against a young Stellenbosch University student.
The suspects, identified in reports as Zimbabwean nationals, Truth Mambemba and Takudzwa Chauruka, face multiple charges including kidnapping, two counts of rape, robbery with aggravating circumstances, extortion, illegal possession of a firearm, and contravening immigration laws.
According to court papers and police investigations, the incident unfolded in the early hours of 2 October 2024. The 20-year-old victim had been out with friends at popular local spot Nu Bar in Stellenbosch. After leaving the club around 2am, she began walking back to her residence when she was allegedly forced into a vehicle, threatened with a firearm, and subjected to sexual assault.
The suspects reportedly contacted the victim’s parents, demanding a R200 000 ransom. In a bizarre twist, they allegedly arranged a Bolt taxi for her release, provided her with R200 in cash, and fled the scene.
The victim reported the crime to Stellenbosch police that same day. Investigators used CCTV footage from the N2 highway near Goot Brak Rivier to track the suspects’ vehicle, leading to their swift arrest.
One of the men is believed to be an e-hailing driver operating under a profile registered to someone else, raising questions about identity verification in ride-sharing services.
The seized cash, nearly R90 000, is believed to be proceeds linked to the extortion attempt or related criminal activities. The forfeiture order was granted earlier this week, allowing the state to permanently confiscate the funds under proceeds-of-crime legislation.
The suspects’ criminal case is scheduled to return to court on 3 March.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about safety for students in Stellenbosch, particularly during late-night outings, amid a reported rise in violent crimes including abductions and extortion in the Boland region.
Police and the NPA have urged anyone with information to come forward, and the victim’s identity remains protected.
Sources: NPA statements,
