A 19-year-old law student was the victim of an alleged attempted kidnapping at a campus in Midrand on Friday, August 28.
According to information issued on behalf of the victim and her family, she was approached and attacked by three unidentified men who allegedly tried to force her into a white Audi.
The student resisted and screamed for help, leading to a struggle between her and the suspects.
The altercation ended after a passer-by noticed what was happening and raised the alarm. The suspects then fled the scene.
The student’s cellphone was stolen during the incident.
Her family has since faced procedural challenges while attempting to report the matter and secure immediate intervention from the South African Police Service (SAPS) and her mobile service provider, Vodacom.
The family has been attempting to obtain the necessary ITC reference numbers and documentation to formally register the case and facilitate further action.
According to the family, the cellphone’s Find My Phone tracking application has indicated a location in Yeoville, Johannesburg.
They were reportedly advised that additional verification and procedural requirements had to be completed before further action could be taken, including blacklisting and deactivating the tracking device.
The family said this would prevent further tracking of the stolen cellphone, while an ITC reference number would only be issued afterwards.
They were also reportedly advised to decide whether to open a criminal case primarily for insurance purposes or pursue alternative options concerning the stolen cellphone.
The family said their immediate concern was the investigation of the alleged attempted kidnapping, assault and theft, as well as the apprehension of the suspects while the cellphone remained traceable.
The student remains traumatised by the incident and is receiving support from her family.
The incident has also highlighted concerns about the safety of women and young people, particularly during Women’s Month.
Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact the South African Police Service.
IOL
