Suspected Kidnapping Kingpin Shot Dead in Kempton Park Shootout

A suspected kidnapping kingpin was killed in a dramatic shootout with police and private security on the R21 in Kempton Park, Gauteng. The Mozambican national, believed to be one of the most wanted figures in cross-border kidnapping syndicates, was fatally shot after allegedly opening fire on officers during an attempted arrest.

Police Confirm Fatal Confrontation

According to police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, members of the SAPS anti-kidnapping task team tracked the suspect, known as “Dollar Man”, as part of an ongoing investigation into several high-profile abductions.

“When officers cornered him, he rammed into a police vehicle and began firing shots. Police retaliated, and he was fatally wounded. Fortunately, none of our members were injured,” Mathe confirmed.

The suspect’s body was removed from the scene by forensic services as investigators wrapped up operations.

Links to Multiple Kidnapping Cases

Authorities believe the man was linked to at least nine kidnapping cases in South Africa, five of which involved ransoms. Millions of rand are said to have been paid into his accounts following the abduction of a Johannesburg businessman in July, who is still missing.

Mathe also revealed that the suspect appeared on Mozambique’s wanted persons database, with several outstanding arrest warrants for kidnappings across the border.

Targeting Wealthy Businessmen

Investigations suggest the syndicate specialised in economic kidnappings, targeting wealthy businesspeople who were likely to pay large sums in ransom.

“These operations were carefully planned, not random,” Mathe explained. “Criminals often use social media to study potential victims’ lifestyles before striking.”

Anti-Kidnapping Task Team Successes

The SAPS anti-kidnapping task team, established in 2018, has been credited with significant progress against such syndicates. Since 2021, police have:

• Arrested over 330 suspects linked to kidnappings.
• Seized more than 400 illegal firearms.
• Confiscated 88 vehicles used in abductions.

Despite this success, authorities warn that kidnappings — including so-called “express kidnappings”, where victims are abducted briefly to empty bank accounts — remain a growing threat.

Ongoing Search for Kidnapped Businessman

Police say investigations are continuing, with leads suggesting the suspect was part of a larger cross-border syndicate. Officers remain in the field, pursuing information that could help rescue the businessman abducted in July.

Mathe urged South Africans, particularly business owners, to remain vigilant:

“Do not overshare personal details on social media. Report any suspicious activity immediately. The first 48 hours after a kidnapping are critical.”

A Developing Story

The death of the alleged kingpin is being seen as a major breakthrough, but authorities caution that more arrests are expected. Police continue to work with Mozambican counterparts to dismantle regional kidnapping networks and recover victims alive.