In an unexpected turn of events, the suspects arrested in connection with the kidnapping of Chinese businessman Lu Xiao have been released.
Hawks spokesperson Captain Yolisa Mgolodela says the trio was released on warning pending the collection of more evidence.
According to Mgolodela, this was per the instruction of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP).
She added that a re-arrest was possible as soon as there was more evidence.
Xiao, 43, was found at an abandoned tavern in Missionvale called Ruby's Place on Wednesday, a week after he was kidnapped in Kariega.
When police pounced on the premises in Missionvale, they found him bruised, dressed in blood-stained clothing, and his hands and feet were tied with locks and chains.
He was kidnapped outside his place of employment at a mall in Kariega last week when he stopped his VW Crafter minibus to allow a gate to close behind him.
Two unknown suspects accosted him and forced him into a white Isuzu double cab bakkie.
The bakkie, two firearms, and a Renault Triber were seized at the premises.
Mgolodela said investigations are ongoing and that further developments would be conveyed.
