By Kaya 959 Reporter
A Gauteng man who faked a hijacking and kidnapping has been charged with perjury.
On Saturday, the 23-year-old claimed that he was hijacked while driving with his five-year-old nephew.
Colonel Dimakatso Sello says the man alleged they were stopped by four armed men who threatened him.
“He said the men then drove off with the boy in the car. Resources were mobilised to track the alleged hijackers in order to save the life of the child,” Sello says.
When police questioned the man, they found that he lied about the hijacking.
“The vehicle was parked at home and the child was safe at home. Police arrested him,” Sello says.
ALSO READ: Top 5 hijacking hotspots in Gauteng
Disappointing behaviour
Gauteng SAPS Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Mawela says he is disappointed by the man’s behaviour.
“Children are kidnapped at times and we are obliged to immediately investigate. A false report puts a lot of strain on police resources which could have been directed to real incidents of crime and to victims who genuinely need police assistance,” Mawela says.
According to figures released by the South African Police Service, reported kidnappings soared by 133% from 2010/2011 to 2019/2020.
This has reportedly put the country at risk of being placed on a consolidated watch list of countries considered to be kidnapping hotspots.
Senior underwriter at specialist risk insurer iTOO, Catia Folgore, warns that kidnapping is becoming big business in South Africa.
She says well-organised syndicates often plan their attacks for weeks and meticulously study their victims before striking.
“Kidnappings are becoming a serious concern in South Africa and, while everyone should be vigilant, few are adequately prepared to deal with an actual kidnapping incident when it occurs.
“This is why we are strongly advising people to involve reputable specialist consultants who are qualified to deal with such situations,” Folgore says.
ALSO READ: Gauteng teens reunited with parents after kidnapping
