An alleged kidnapping ringleader and suspect linked to a R300 million drug bust has been intercepted at OR Tambo International Airport.

The 40-year-old Zambian national was intercepted as he arrived in the country on Sunday morning.

‘Police have been keeping a close watch on the suspect’s movement. The suspect is believed to be one of the ringleaders behind a kidnapping for ransom syndicate targeting businessmen in South Africa,’ said the South African Police Service (SAPS) in a statement.

He is specifically linked to the kidnapping of a 63-year-old businessman who was kidnapped in Helderkruin, Roodepoort in July.

He was rescued on the same day that police made the discovery of R300 million worth of crystal meth at two properties in Fourways and a hotel in Bruma.

He is also believed to be a key figure in the R300 million crystal meth drugs that were seized.

Police have been tracking the suspect and upon arrival at the OR Tambo Airport, he was arrested by a multidisciplinary team led by SAPS anti-kidnap
ping task team, counter intelligence, detectives, the Johannesburg Metro Police Department K-9 unit, Flying Squad and private security.

The suspect is expected to be charged with eight other suspects who were arrested for the kidnapping of the businessman and the drug bust.

Source: South African Government News Agency