The family and friends of kidnapped Pretoria Businessman Baboo Kaytex have called for an "urgent and immediate investigation" following the granting of bail to the suspected mastermind
Fatima Ismail (47), was arrested with three other suspects when the victim was freed on Monday, 02 December 2024.
Fatima Ismail and her co-accused appeared in the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court this morning following their arrest after an intense investigation and rescue operation by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit (AKU) and other law enforcement agencies.
It is alleged that the kidnappers, including Ismail, had orchestrated the abduction of Baboo Kaytex, who was taken at gunpoint from the R55 in Centurion, along with his wife. The couple were held captive in an upmarket estate in Silverlakes and later transferred to Mamelodi, where they were successfully rescued.
Some money was transferred from Kader's bank account shortly after the abduction.
One of the suspects arrested, believed to be an IT specialist for a multinational company, allegedly befriended Ismail at a gym before being involved in the plot.
The four suspects, including Ismail, face charges of kidnapping, ransom, and other serious offenses. The police have also confiscated firearms, cellphones, and the Jeep used during the kidnapping.
A fifth suspect, also involved in the scheme, was arrested on the West Rand after the money was transferred to him. Police have also seized an illegal firearm in connection with that arrest.
Police sources say they were also taken aback when they heard that the alleged mastermind was granted bail.
A source close to the family said they calling on the NPA and authorities for an immediate and full investigation as to how the mastermind was granted bail and the other suspects remanded "is mind boggling."
Ashraf Kader is expected to make a full recovery soon.
