Johannesburg – Missing couple – 55-year-old Pastor Phillip Mashudu and wife, 54-year-old Elsie Matlou Mashudu – have been found and rescued in Everton, Gauteng.
Last week the Free State couple left their Bethlehem home in a white Mercedez Benz GLS to attend a church conference in Parrys, but they never arrived at their destination.
The pastor and his wife were reported missing on Friday, (23 August 2024).
Police said a preliminary investigation revealed that the couple was hijacked and kidnapped on the road between Heibron and Sasolburg.
They had been stopped by impersonators dressed in full police officers’ uniforms.
Announcing the rescue on Tuesday, the Provincial Commissioner of the Police in the Free State, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane said the missing couple were found in Everton, Gauteng.
They were rescued in the evening on Monday, (27 August 2024) and police arrested four suspects.
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu commended the South African Police Service (SAPS) for the rescue.
“It is as a result of the quick response and relentless determination of a multi-disciplinary team, that credible leads were pursued around the clock, ultimately leading to the location of the victims on the evening of Monday, 27 August 2024,” said Minister Mchunu.
“I am pleased to report that the victims were found in a physically stable condition.
“This incident is a stark reminder of the challenges we face in our ongoing efforts to maintain public safety, however, it is also a testament to what can be achieved when our police service acts with resolve, diligence, and integrity.
“We extend our gratitude to all the teams involved; your unwavering commitment and professionalism have not only brought about a successful resolution to this case but have also restored a sense of security and faith within our community.”
Dr. Azwihangwi Maumela, speaking on behalf of the Mashudu family, has expressed the family’s profound gratitude for the exceptional service provided by our police officers.
While the minister stated that the safety and security of every citizen remain a top police priority, he said there were concerns about the possible involvement of rogue law enforcers in the crime.
“We will look into the allegations of possible involvement of police officers and where there are police officers implicated, we will take action,” said Minister Mchunu.
“Corruption within the SAPS will not be tolerated and we urge anyone with information to come forward and assist the police.”
The four arrested suspects, aged between 31 and 41, will appear in the Sasolburg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, (29 August 2024), on charges of hijacking and kidnapping
