SA could become global Mecca for kidnappers, says Action Society head

Goodhope Dlangamandla | goodhope@radioislam.co.za
12 December 2022 | 10:00 AM CAT
1 min read

Photo Credit: BizNews

Action Society has warned that kidnapping threatens the country’s economy.

Looking at the numbers shown in the most recent Gauteng crime statistics last week, its chairman, Ian Cameron, believes South Africa may soon have a reputation as the world’s paradise for kidnappers.

In the meantime, following the release of the most recent local crime statistics, which show a significant increase in kidnapping figures for Gauteng, the province has been designated as an “abduction hot area” alongside Mexico.

Ian Cameron told Radio Islam international on Monday that the number of kidnappings in the country will have risen to roughly 1000 each month, or 12,000 per year, by 2022.

“The increase in the past 2 to 3 years has been incredible; it has grown to a point where we are a world leader.”

Less than 5% of these 1,000 cases, he continued, include extortion, and 75% involve kidnappings, which are frequently combined with hijackings since hostages are seized from the drivers.

Cameron claimed that although it has long been among the top five as the world’s leader, things are now beginning to deteriorate.

Listen to the interview on Sabahul Muslim with host Sulaimaan Ravat and his guest, Ian Cameron of Action Society.

Preserving the Ozone Layer

Quick Recap – History of the Day The International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, observed every September 16th, commemorates the signing of the landmark 1987 Montreal Protocol. The history of this day is ultimately a celebration of humanity's ability to...

Half of SA’s four-year-olds falling behind before school, New Index Warns

16 September 2025 | 09:00 CAT 2-minute read More than half of South Africa’s four-year-olds are already behind on key developmental milestones, a national survey has revealed—underscoring how inequality and poor nutrition shape children’s futures long before they...

A Jaunt Through Japan

Rabia Mayet | rabiamayet@radioislam.co.za 16 August 2025 3-minute read Japan is a country that captivates travellers with its harmonious blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels. After a recent trip to Japan, travel blogger Fatima Vanker shared the essentials of...

Palestine Report

15 September 2025 | 13:15 CAT 3-minute read Israel’s Relentless Gaza Bombardment Leaves Islamic University in Ruins, Global Summit Yields Little Action Residents of Gaza City describe a night of terror as Israeli airstrikes intensified this week, targeting densely...

The Debrief Report

15 September 2025 | 12:32 CAT 3-minute read Nepal’s Social Media Ban and Westbury’s Dry Taps: Fury at Failed Leadership Fuels Parallel Protests From the crowded streets of Kathmandu to the dry taps of Westbury, ordinary people are reaching a breaking point. Across...