Sigh of relief as IDAC head of investigations released following kidnapping ordeal

Concerned South Africans have heaved a sigh of relief after the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) confirmed the dramatic kidnapping of its head of investigations, believed to be Matthews Sesoko, who was abducted on Friday night in Ekurhuleni, was released following a brief encounter with his attackers.

In a chilling account of the incident, IDAC spokesperson Henry Mamothame disclosed that Sesoko was briefly kidnapped, assaulted, and ultimately abandoned by his attackers, who made off with valuable personal items.

“The head of Investigations and Operations at the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) was kidnapped last night while driving home. His assailants assaulted him and abandoned him near Rabie Ridge in the early hours of the morning. They took off with his cellphone and laptop,” he said.

Mamothame indicated that the said official, who was briefly held against his will, was later released and taken to the hospital.

The ordeal unfolded while Sesoko was driving home near Midrand, where he was reportedly ambushed by assailants who forcibly seized his mobile phone and laptop.

Describing the harrowing experience, Mamothame stated: “He was assaulted and abandoned near Rabie Ridge in the early hours of the morning. They took off with his cellphone and laptop.”

In a fortunate turn of events, Sesoko managed to escape from his captors and sought assistance shortly after. He was taken to a nearby police station to report the incident and is now receiving medical attention following the traumatic experience.

“He managed to receive assistance and was taken to a nearby police station to report the matter. He is currently receiving the necessary medical attention, following his traumatic experience,” Mamothame stated.

While there have been reports that Sesoko could have been the target due to his work-related investigations, Mamothame said the NPA will not, at this stage, speculate on the possible motive for this incident.

“While the NPA is wary of making any speculation on the motive behind such horrific action and whether it is related to his work, the incident and its timing reflect the possible dangers in this space. The incident has been reported to the police for criminal investigation,” he said.

According to media reports, the said official managed to get assistance and reported the matter at a nearby police station, and is currently receiving medical attention following the ordeal. Mamothame said there have not been any arrests made yet, with authorities appealing to anyone with information to come forward.