A well-coordinated operation by South Africa’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit has led to the successful rescue of Lenasia businessman Bashir Ismail Mia, who was kidnapped from his business premises on Thursday, 29 May 2025.
The abduction triggered an immediate high-level investigation involving SAPS Crime Intelligence, Gauteng’s Provincial Investigative Unit, JMPD K9, SAPS Highway Gauteng’s Flexi PES team, and several private security firms.
The kidnappers issued a ransom demand of R15 million, placing immense emotional and psychological strain on Mr. Mia’s family. Acting swiftly on gathered intelligence, SAPS members were led to Zola, Soweto, where they recovered key evidence from suspects’ cellphones. The information not only confirmed ransom negotiations but also exposed a broader criminal network involved in cross-border kidnappings.
Further investigation revealed links to a transnational syndicate. Working with international partners, authorities were able to identify and arrest a suspected kingpin based in Randfontein on 10 July 2025.
Following this arrest, officers received intelligence about a property in Randfontein where Mr. Mia was believed to be held. A tactical team moved in to rescue him, but the suspects opened fire, prompting a swift and decisive response. Two suspects were fatally wounded in the exchange, and Mr. Mia was safely recovered.
Several suspects were arrested during the operation. Police also seized multiple firearms, cellphones, laptops, and bank cards. Two vehicles believed to have been used in the commission of the crime were impounded.
Local residents have welcomed the news with relief. SAPS has praised the multi-agency cooperation that made the rescue possible and reaffirmed its commitment to combating kidnapping and organised crime.
Mr. Mia’s family expressed deep gratitude to all units involved in the rescue operation. SAPS has confirmed that the case remains under investigation and further arrests are possible.
