Pastor and wife found in Evaton after being kidnapped outside Sasolburg

VAAL TRIANGLE - A pastor from Bethlehem and his wife were found in Evaton, Vaal Triangle, on Monday after they were hijacked and kidnapped on the road between Heilbron and Sasolburg. The Provincial Commissioner of the Police in the Free State, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane, said Pastor Phillip Mashudu (55) and his wife, Elsie Matlou Mashudu (54), left Bethlehem on Friday, 23 August 2024 to attend a church conference in Parys when they were reported missing. A provincial task team was established and after following up on leads, the couple's vehicle was found in Sebokeng on Sunday. The team then made a breakthrough that led to the arrest of three people in Sharpeville on Monday. Further investigation by the team led to a house in Evaton where a fourth suspect was arrested and the couple was found unharmed . Police confiscated several bank cards at the address, as well as a substantial amount of cash and a toy gun. The investigation continues and more arrests are expected. The suspects, men between the ages of 31 and 41, will appear in the Sasolburg magistrate court tomorrow on charges of hijacking and kidnapping.

PHOTO: (Blue Ink Communications)