The disappearance of Milnerton businessman Roger Brijlal has left his family, employees and community deeply unsettled, as police confirm that his case is being handled as both a kidnapping and extortion matter. Almost two weeks have passed since he was last seen, and the circumstances surrounding his abduction have raised pressing questions about safety, motive and health.
Vanished on September 9
According to those close to him, Brijlal was last seen on the morning of September 9. His absence from work immediately drew concern, particularly because of his strict routine. One associate said his sudden silence was alarming.
“He’s a creature of habit,” the source said. “He would communicate with his family and co-workers early in the morning, but he didn’t that morning. Concern grew throughout the morning when attempts to reach him failed.”
Later that afternoon, after multiple attempts to make contact proved unsuccessful, a missing person’s case was opened at the Milnerton police station. It was during this process that police recovered his Volkswagen Amarok, which had been abandoned in Joe Slovo.
“A case was opened at Milnerton police station, and that was when his vehicle, a VW Amarok, was recovered abandoned in Joe Slovo.”
Contact and Threats
In the hours following the report, those close to Brijlal revealed that there had been communication from individuals claiming to be behind his disappearance. These messages reportedly contained threats and demands. The family and friends of the businessman were left grappling with the reality that he was being held against his will.
A source further explained that there was anxiety over Brijlal’s wellbeing.
“Another concern is that he is not in the best of health. Even though he is known for being a strong person, he doesn’t have any form of medication with him. It is possible that the kidnappers may have been watching him for some time. It could be an ex-employee who took him, or it could be anyone.”
The possibility that his abduction was premeditated has heightened unease, and those familiar with him fear that his health may deteriorate without access to medical care.
Police Investigation Under Way
Western Cape police have confirmed that the matter is being investigated by the Provincial Anti-Kidnapping Task Team. Sergeant Wesley Twigg said the case was formally recorded as both kidnapping and extortion.
“Kindly be advised that the mentioned case number is a kidnapping and extortion case. According to reports, the complainant’s fiancé did not come home, and she went to report him missing,” said Twigg.
“The complainant then received a telephone call demanding a ransom for the victim’s safe return. The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation, and arrests are yet to be made.”
Police have not revealed the nature of the ransom demand, nor have they disclosed who made the initial contact with the suspects. For now, investigators are pursuing leads and have urged members of the public to come forward with any information that might assist in tracing Brijlal.
Community Appeal
The uncertainty has left those close to the businessman pleading for assistance. Friends and colleagues have asked that anyone who might have seen Brijlal or noticed unusual activity in the Milnerton or Joe Slovo areas report their observations.
Authorities have reiterated that information can be shared anonymously. Crime Stop can be contacted on 08600 10111, and callers may remain unnamed if they wish.
As time stretches on since Brijlal’s disappearance, the hopes of his safe return remain at the forefront for his family and the wider business community. The case has underscored the growing concern around kidnappings for ransom in South Africa, with questions still lingering over whether this was a targeted act or a crime of opportunity.
