Warrant Officer Xolani Busakwe, a 42-year-old member of the Hawks Cyber Crime Unit, was arrested on 22 September 2026 in connection with two kidnapping cases in the Nelson Mandela Bay area. Investigators linked Busakwe to abductions that took place in Swartkops and Kariega, with allegations involving serious organised criminal activity under the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA).
The kidnappings involved victims Lindsay Knowlden and Theresa Minnie. Knowlden was abducted on 21 June 2025 at the Fresh Produce Market in the Markman Industrial Area of Gqeberha, while Minnie was taken outside her home in Fairbridge Heights, Kariega, on 11 August 2025. Both were released unharmed after ransom demands were made.
Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana said, “The investigation relates to kidnapping incidents reported in the Swartkops and Kariega areas, as well as allegations of performing acts aimed at causing, bringing about, promoting, or contributing towards a pattern of criminal gang activity, in contravention of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (Poca).”
This arrest forms part of an intensive probe by the Eastern Cape Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation into multiple kidnapping and ransom incidents. Mhlakuvana added, “The new arrest is a significant breakthrough in their ongoing investigation into organised crime activities, including kidnapping for ransom, extortion and robbery.”
Busakwe appeared in the Gqeberha court alongside several co-accused, including Ayabulela Busakwe, Simthembile Xungu, David Mthembu, Buhle Mbini, and Andile Mathumbu. The investigation also extended to a guesthouse in Summerstrand where two suspects were arrested and cash was seized.
Reports link this broader criminal syndicate investigation to the murder of Gqeberha prosecutor Tracy Brown, who was shot dead outside her Young Park home on 31 July 2025 after leaving work at the New Brighton Magistrate’s Court. The exact role of each accused in both the kidnapping and murder cases remains subject to ongoing court proceedings and has not been established.
Mhlakuvana said the investigation spanned multiple locations, including Pretoria, where Busakwe was arrested at his workplace in the SAPS Head Office. Charges against the accused include kidnapping, extortion and robbery with aggravating circumstances under POCA and other relevant laws.
The connection of a serving Hawks officer to these serious crimes casts a sharp light on concerns of corruption and collusion in law enforcement. The investigation continues to develop, with further appearances in the Gqeberha courts expected to clarify the complex links between the alleged kidnapping ring and the prosecutor’s murder.
Details such as the precise amount of cash seized and the individuals’ internal roles within the alleged syndicate remain unverified pending trial. CapeFlats.co.za will provide updates as court proceedings progress and new information is confirmed.