Five suspects will appear in court soon following the kidnapping and murder of a 31-year-old man in Phase 7, Bloemfontein, in the Free State.
In a statement, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said the incident took place in the early hours of Sunday.
“It is alleged that the deceased was drinking with friends when an argument broke out with a group of strangers. The suspects … reportedly forced the victim into a black vehicle and drove away with him.
"At approximately 6am, the victim was found lying supine on a street in Phase 7 with multiple stab wounds to his face and deep wounds to his left cheek. A large rock and a small spanner were found near the body. Paramedics declared him dead at the scene,” the police said.
A dedicated task team, led by Bloemspruit Detectives, was established to follow up on leads leading to the arrest of the five, aged between 21 and 34.
The Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thabang Solomon Lesia, has commended the task team for their rapid response and successful arrests.
"The swift apprehension of these suspects sends a clear message that we will not tolerate lawlessness or the brutalisation of our citizens. As the South African Police Service, we remain dedicated and steadfast in our mission to ensure that perpetrators of such violent crimes face the full might of the law," said Lesia.
The suspects face charges of murder and kidnapping. – SAnews.gov.za
