FOREIGN NATIONALS IN COURT FOR KIDNAPPING A 9-YEAR-OLD BOY
Afghan national Maisa Hussain (24) and Pakistan nationals Gulfam Azam (29), Yasir Mahmood (29), Bilawal Arif (30), and Faisal Khuoot (30), all residing in Laudium, appeared in the Atteridgeville Magistrates’ Court today. They face charges of kidnapping a 9-year-old boy, unlawful possession of an unlicensed firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, and extortion.
It is alleged that on 19 January 2025 in Laudium. A 9-year-old boy was playing with his cousin on the driveway outside his relative’s home when a car stopped nearby. The five accused allegedly exited the vehicle, grabbed the boy, and drove away. The victim’s cousin ran into the house to alert the family, who immediately reported the matter to the police. While at the police station, it is alleged that the victim’s mother received a phone call from one of the accused, demanding a ransom of R15 million for her child’s release. The ransom demand was later reduced to R6 million.
Following an investigation by the South African Police Service (SAPS), the vehicle used in the kidnapping was traced to a shop in Laudium on 24 January 2025, where Hussain and Azam were arrested. The accused then led the police to a house in Danville, where the 9-year-old victim was found along with Mahmood and Arif, who were arrested at the scene. Later that same day, Khuoot was arrested at his residence in Laudium.
In court, the matter was postponed to 29 January 2025 to arrange for a foreign-language interpreter.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) commends the SAPS for their swift action, ensuring the safe recovery of the child and the arrest of the accused. The NPA will continue to pursue justice in this matter.
