Vuyisani Topo (38) briefly appeared before the Cala
Magistrate’s Court today, August 15, this follows his arrested by the Eastern Cape
Kidnapping Task Team on August 12, 2022, on allegations of kidnapping.
Topo was
remanded in custody until August 22, 2022, for formal bail application.
Hawks spokesperson Captain Yolisa Mgolodela said it is alleged that on
July 5, 2022, at about 18:15, three suspects entered Nosiphiwo Konzeka’s
place at Ndondo Square in Cala, where Constable Mfundo Ntshiba (35), Xolile Makhosini (37) and Vuyisani Topo (38)
kidnapped three victims, stole an amount of R22 000 together with 98 bank
cards, and a Ertiga vehicle.
Mgolodela said the vehicle and two bothers were later found safe, adding that all suspects dressed in police uniform were alleged to have budged into
the house of the alleged loan shark.
“The victims were later rescued unharmed
on the very same day. Ntshiba was identified by the victim and was immediately
arrested together with Makhosini. They both appeared at the Cala Magistrate Court
on July 7, 2022, and Makhosini was granted R2 000 bail to re-appear on August
30, 2022, while Ntshiba was denied bail at the basis of being a law enforcement
agent,” said Mgolodela.
She further added that Ntshiba later escaped lawful custody on
July 25, 2022, during his third bail appearance till to date. Topo was
arrested on August 12 through public assistance after a long search by police.
The Provincial Head Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya commended the public for
the swift response to the appeal for assistance by the Task Team.
