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The Hawks in the Eastern Cape have called for a stern message to be sent to the Kariega teacher who allegedly faked his kidnapping.
Hawks spokesperson Captain Yolisa Mgolodela was speaking at the Kwanobuhle Mall in Kariega on Friday, where they held an awareness campaign around kidnapping.
She said they want the Department of Justice to send a message to would-be perpetrators that would deter them from committing this crime.
"So, we believe and hope that the justice system is going to play an eminent role by giving a harsh sentence," she said.
Xolile Douw, (51) faces charges of defeating the ends of justice and extortion, and was released on bail of R7000 on Wednesday.
He was warned to be back in court on 23 May.
Also Read: Teacher accused of faking kidnapping granted bail
The Hawks meanwhile handed out pamphlets to the public providing information on the steps to be taken if a kidnapping occurs.
"The most important thing is for onlookers to inform the police as soon as possible," said Mgolodela.
She also said that kidnapping and extortion were an easy way to make money, with foreign nationals often targeted.
Mgolodela further noted that the "biggest challenge" they face is when families of kidnapping victims go behind their backs and pay ransom demands.
There have been at least six kidnappings in Nelson Mandela Bay so far this year.
Read more: https://www.algoafm.co.za/local/major-breakthrough-in-spate-of-gq-kidnappings
