GQEBERHA – Nine suspects linked to the kidnapping of 62-year-old Gqeberha single mother, Tracey Fourie, were arrested by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation known as the Hawks. The arrest is a major victory against organised crime, as the suspects were allegedly intercepted with ransom money in their possession, alongside unlicensed firearms and two vehicles believed to have been used in the commission of the crime.
According to the Hawks spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Avele Fumba, Fourie was allegedly abducted and held captive for a week while ransom negotiations unfolded. “On 25 August, the team strategically exerted sufficient pressure and closely monitored the situation. She was released unharmed. Within hours, the Hawks executed a precision intelligence-led operation that dismantled the syndicate and brought multiple suspects into custody.”
He noted that this success was made possible through close cooperation between the Hawks, Magma Security and Investigations, Crime Intelligence and the Local Criminal Record Centre. “The swift flow of intelligence, rapid mobilisation and coordinated execution delivered a crushing blow to those who thought they could terrorise the community.”
“This decisive breakthrough not only ensured the victim’s safe return but also sent a powerful message to criminal syndicates operating in the Eastern Cape,” Fumba said.
“Follow-up operations remain active as investigators track down additional suspects believed to be linked to the kidnapping network.” Fumba urged members of the public to come forward with any information that may assist ongoing investigations.
Provincial Head of the Hawks, Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, praised the operation, stating that “This case proves that the Hawks will never allow ruthless criminals to hold our people hostage. Those who prey on the vulnerable must understand: we will hunt you down, dismantle your networks and bring you to justice without hesitation.”
