The latest crime statistics showed an average of 27 people are abducted in the province every day. A total of 2,452 kidnappings were reported in the province during the first three months, representing an increase of 38 cases compared to the same quarter in the previous financial year. 

The police service’s fourth-quarter crime statistics for the 2025/2026 financial year, covering January to March 2026, show that Gauteng accounted for 54.8% of all kidnapping cases recorded nationally.

The province recorded 163 ransom kidnappings, accounting for more than 75% of all such cases reported nationwide. A total of 19 of the top 30 police stations for kidnapping incidents nationally are located in Gauteng, underlining the scale of the crisis.

“Kidnapping in Gauteng has become a highly sophisticated, volume-driven commercial enterprise,” said criminologist prof Jacob Mofokeng. “Criminal syndicates are increasingly targeting victims’ bank accounts through digital banking platforms and forced financial transactions.

“The first 24 hours after a kidnapping are absolutely critical. Most victims are recovered during this period, which is why families should report incidents immediately and allow specialised law enforcement teams to intervene.

“One of the most alarming trends we are seeing is the use of dating apps and social media platforms to lure unsuspecting victims. South Africans must be extremely cautious about sharing personal information online or meeting strangers without taking proper precautions.”

A year ago, a Bloemfontein woman’s body was discovered in Gauteng after a date. Olorato Mongale, 30, was discovered in Lombardy West, Randburg, following her disappearance after a date.

Mongale was last seen being picked up from her residential complex in a white VW Polo with fake registration plates replicated from a Toyota Hilux (LT 57 JR GP), according to police investigations. Her personal belongings, including a cell phone, wallet, and handbag, were later found abandoned on 9th Road in Kew, Johannesburg.

The DA has criticised Gauteng’s crime-fighting strategies, arguing that organised criminal syndicates are operating with increasing confidence and little fear of arrest. “The 27 kidnappings taking place daily demand urgent, decisive intervention, not political slogans, or soundbites of imagined safety,” said Gauteng DA shadow MEC for community safety Crezane Bosch.

The Gauteng provincial legislature’s portfolio committee on community safety has previously urged residents to exercise extreme caution when meeting strangers through online dating platforms and social media.

Police have also warned about fake profiles on applications such as Tinder and Grindr, which organised criminal groups are allegedly using to target victims.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame mvh

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