Three arrested in connection with Emaan Fatima's kidnapping in East London

Three people appeared in the East London Magistrate's Court on Wednesday morning in connection with the alleged kidnapping of Emaan Fatima. 

The nine-year-old was released on Wednesday morning, almost a week after she was kidnapped outside a school in Buffalo Flats in East London on February 4, 2025. 

Lieutenant Colonel Avele Fumba, spokesperson for the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation (known as the Hawks) said the suspects aged between 20 and 67 are charged with kidnapping. 

Fumba said according to investigations the victim was returning home from school when she was accosted by two unidentified suspects. 

She was taken in a silver-grey Toyota Corolla to an unknown place. 

"A meticulous investigation led to the arrests of the suspects." 

He said the victim was found near a police station, unharmed. 

The matter was adjourned to February 19 for a formal bail application. 

Fumba said there were more arrests imminent as the investigation unfolds. 

There has been a spate of kidnapping incidents in the Eastern Cape in recent weeks. 

Earlier today another kidnapping victim was released 24 hours after he was kidnapped. 

Ebrahim Moosa, 74, was snatched outside his workplace in Cuyler Street, Kruisrivier at around 10 am on Tuesday. 

He was found during Wednesday night in Kwazakele. 

Police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse Van Rensburg said the 74-year-old is currently receiving medical attention.

"No further information will be shared as this is an ongoing investigation."

IOL News