Pretoria – The rescue of kidnapped Calvin Naidoo, a prominent businessman from Gqeberha, has earned the Hawks praise from the new Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.
Naidoo was kidnapped last week on Friday, (19th of July 2024).
The brazen incident sent shockwaves through the community and underscored the pervasive threat of organised crime.
A recent Statistics SA report indicated that more than 16 000 kidnappings were recorded annually, with 85% of the victims being women and children.
The minister said the Hawks – working in close collaboration with various law enforcement units – “displayed remarkable expertise and tenacity” to secure Naidoo’s safe return to his family.
Minister Mchunu praised the Hawks for their swift response.
“The situation has indeed been nail-biting; we are just as relieved as the Naidoo family over Mr. Naidoo’s safe return,” said Minister Mchunu.
“The successful rescue of Mr. Naidoo is a testament to the unwavering commitment and bravery of our law enforcement officers.
“The Hawks have once again demonstrated their ability to operate with precision and effectiveness in the face of complex criminal activities.”
Minister Mchunu added: “The focus of our law enforcement agencies is now swung to the culprits, they must be assured that they will be dug out from any hole and brought to face the law.”
Minister Mchunu reiterated the government’s firm stance against crime, emphasising that there will be no sanctuary for criminals in South Africa.
“We are directing all police officers to tighten their grip on criminals,” said Minister Mchunu.
“Criminals must know that we are resolute in our mission to bring them to justice.
“No crime is considered small as we have seen how petty crimes are becoming bigger crimes”.
