By: Natasha Archary
Social media was buzzing this week after a man went missing after last being seen at Newscafe Woodmead.
Kgalalelo Tolo went missing on Friday, 29 April, prompting social media speculation of a kidnapping ring from the establishment.
What transpired was a thread about women being drugged and dragged to cars in the Newscafe Woodmead parking lot.
Many users claimed to have seen the nightspot’s bouncers carrying two women into cars, while they were severely intoxicated, raising concerns of drinks being spiked.
A claim SAPS Gauteng have vehemently denied as fake news.
In a statement, from the Office of the Provincial Commissioner, SAPS said the validity of the tweet that sparked the social media panic was investigated.
“Gauteng police have taken note of the viral tweet about two women who were allegedly bungled into two sedans at a local night club in Woodmead. The validity of the tweet was investigated and it can be confirmed that, the two women were not kidnapped but in fact picked up by their next of kin contrary to what has been purported on social media.”
SAPS Gauteng
SAPS also dispelled the notion that 33-year Kgalelelo Tolo was kidnapped from the popular nightspot and confirmed he died in a fatal hit-and-run accident.
“On another incident, the man who was reported missing after he was last seen leaving the same night club, was unfortunately involved in a fatal hit-and-run accident.”
It is reported Tolo died while walking back to his place of residence in Woodmead. Police say his next of kin have been notified.
SAPS urges the public to refrain from circulating unverified messages that cause public fear and panic.
Newscafe Woodmead have distanced itself from these rumours. In a telephonic conversation with Mac G, the manager at the establishment said he blames his rival in the industry for these rumours.
“Don’t worry my brother, if you have to worry about these things, you will end up not having a business. Just tell people, these rumours are crap,” the Newscafe manager shared.
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