Key Details:
- Suspects: Sabelo and Thabiso Mchunu (aged 29 and 35).
- Court: Pinetown Magistrate’s Court in Durban.
- Charges: They face six counts, including kidnapping and extortion. They are accused of kidnapping children and demanding R10,000 ransoms from their parents. The most recent incidents reportedly occurred in April 2026.
- Arrests: Made on 26–27 May 2026 during an intelligence-driven operation by the Pinetown Trio Task Team and KwaDabeka Field Unit. One suspect was arrested in Clermont, the other in Malvern. Police recovered two vehicles and a replica firearm believed to be linked to the crimes.
- Postponement: The matter was postponed to 8 June 2026 to allow police more time to verify details, such as the suspects’ home addresses. Prosecutors indicated they will oppose bail. The men appeared calm during their first court appearance.
