The 65-year-old suspect was arrested on Tuesday during an operation led by the Hawks in KwaZulu-Natal. Image: Supplied.
Kidnapping
1Min
South Africa
Durban businessman appears in court on human trafficking, kidnapping and sexual assault charges
A 65-year-old Durban businessman whose name has surfaced at both the Madlanga Commission and Parliament’s Ad Hoc Committee has appeared in court following his arrest on serious charges including human trafficking, kidnapping and sexual assault.
A controversial Durban businessman has made his first appearance in court following his arrest on a string of serious charges, including human trafficking, kidnapping and sexual assault.
The 65-year-old suspect was arrested on Tuesday during an operation led by the Hawks in KwaZulu-Natal.
A team of officers arrived at his upmarket property in Umhlanga armed with a J50 warrant of arrest. The suspect reportedly complied with the arrest without incident and was detained overnight.
His name has previously emerged during proceedings at the Madlanga Commission and the Parliamentary Ad Hoc Committee.
The accused faces charges of sexual assault, human trafficking, kidnapping, contravening the Cybercrimes Act and contravening the Films and Publications Act.
He cannot be named at this stage as he has not yet pleaded to the charges.
The accused is expected to apply for bail on 25 August 2026.
During his court appearance, the businessman submitted a doctor's note. He was subsequently transferred to the Westville prison hospital, where he will remain until his next appearance.
Meanwhile, an application by the media for the proceedings to be broadcast live was opposed by both the accused's lawyer and the State.
The court heard that the sensitive nature of the case made live coverage inappropriate. The magistrate ultimately denied the application.
