Inside Job Suspected in Vosloorus Kidnapping as Spaza Shop Owner Freed After Month of Captivity

Gauteng police have made a significant breakthrough in the investigation into the kidnapping of a Vosloorus spaza shop owner, revealing that at least one of the suspects is known to the victim — a detail that could prove critical in cracking the case.

Provincial Police Commissioner Tommy Mthombeni disclosed the development during a media briefing attended by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, shedding new light on the circumstances surrounding the abduction of local businessman Mazwi Kubheka.

Kubheka was kidnapped on April 2 while reportedly on his way to deposit money at a bank, in what authorities believe may have been a targeted attack. The incident sent shockwaves through the Vosloorus community, where small business owners — particularly those operating spaza shops — have increasingly become targets of violent crime, including robberies and kidnappings.
After nearly a month in captivity, Kubheka was released over the weekend under unclear circumstances. According to police, he was dropped off near Brakpan before managing to find his way back to safety. Despite the trauma he endured, Kubheka reportedly hitchhiked to the Vosloorus Police Station, where he sought help before being taken to hospital for medical evaluation.

Commissioner Mthombeni explained that Kubheka’s ordeal was marked by extreme isolation and limited awareness of his surroundings. The victim was blindfolded for most of his captivity, making it difficult for him to identify specific locations or movements during the period he was held.

“He could not fully account for where he was taken or how he was moved, as he remained blindfolded for most of the time,” Mthombeni said. “However, he did indicate that when the blindfold was removed, he found himself inside a building where he was kept upstairs and guarded.”

Police believe the building may have been hijacked — a growing trend in parts of Gauteng where abandoned or illegally occupied structures are used for criminal activities. Mthombeni added that Kubheka reported being guarded by two foreign nationals, believed to be Malawian, though authorities have not yet confirmed their identities or roles in the broader syndicate.

The revelation that one of the suspects is known to Kubheka has raised concerns about possible inside involvement or betrayal. Investigators are now focusing on individuals within the victim’s circle who may have had knowledge of his daily routines or financial activities.

While the motive for the kidnapping has not been officially confirmed, police suspect it may be linked to extortion or ransom demands, a pattern increasingly observed in crimes targeting small business owners in townships. In many such cases, perpetrators rely on insider information to track victims’ movements and exploit vulnerabilities.
Gauteng has seen a rise in kidnappings linked to organised crime in recent years, prompting heightened law enforcement responses and specialised task teams. Authorities have urged business owners to remain vigilant, vary their routines, and avoid travelling alone when handling large sums of money.

Premier Lesufi, who attended the briefing, reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to tackling violent crime and protecting small businesses, which play a vital role in township economies.
Meanwhile, Kubheka remains under medical care and is expected to assist police further once he has recovered sufficiently. His testimony is expected to play a crucial role in identifying suspects and building a strong case for prosecution.

Police investigations are ongoing, and no arrests have been confirmed at this stage. Authorities have appealed to anyone with information to come forward, assuring that all tips will be treated with strict confidentiality.
The case has once again highlighted the dangers faced by township entrepreneurs and the urgent need for strengthened security measures, as law enforcement intensifies efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating in Gauteng.