Police in South Africa have arrested three suspects after a family of seven was allegedly kidnapped from their home, raped, and executed in a brutal attack. The victims, whose ages ranged from their 20s to 80s, were snatched from their property in Newark, KwaZulu-Natal, on April 21.
Details of the Crime
The family was taken in their own vehicle and driven approximately 200 kilometers to Melmoth, where they were murdered. Authorities were alerted the following morning when a domestic worker arrived at the home and discovered it had been broken into. Several family members and their car were missing.
Police launched a massive search involving multiple units and private security partners. The suspects led officers to Melmoth on Wednesday, where the bodies of the seven victims were found. The victims were aged between 20 and 83.
Suspects Arrested
Three suspects, aged 21, 26, and 28, have been arrested on charges including rape and murder. They are expected to appear in the KwaDukuza Magistrate’s Court on Friday. One of the suspects reportedly worked for the family.
According to a statement from South African Police, the suspects broke into the home, tied the victims with rope, and raped a 20-year-old woman. The family was then loaded into their own vehicle and driven to Melmoth.
Bank Transfers and Killings
The suspects demanded bank details and personal identification numbers (PINs) from three victims. After obtaining the information, they shot and killed those three victims. The remaining four family members were stabbed to death. Several bank transfers were made from the victims’ accounts on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning.
Police recovered 11 cellphones and a firearm from the suspects. The investigation continues.
