In a chilling reminder of the security challenges facing media professionals in South Africa, eNCA reporter Nkosikhona Malinga-Mnisi was abducted and robbed in Johannesburg this past weekend. The incident occurs amidst a concerning spike in opportunistic kidnappings across Gauteng during the festive season.
The Incident: A High-Daylight Abduction
At approximately 13:30 on Saturday, December 20, Malinga-Mnisi was intercepted by kidnappers. The journalist was taken to a secluded room where he was held captive. During the ordeal, the perpetrators systematically drained his bank accounts and seized his mobile devices.
Fortunately, Malinga-Mnisi managed to escape the situation physically unharmed. While his phones remained stolen, his vehicle and essential bank cards were later recovered.
Event Timeline
-
Saturday, 13:30: Malinga-Mnisi is abducted and moved to a secure room.
-
Saturday Afternoon: Captors drain his bank accounts and steal his mobile phones.
-
Saturday Evening: The victim is released; his vehicle and cards are returned.
-
Sunday Morning: Malinga-Mnisi issues a public warning regarding his compromised phone lines.
-
Sunday Afternoon: Major outlets, including POWER987News, confirm that South African authorities have launched an investigation.
Key Figures Involved
-
Nkosikhona Malinga-Mnisi: The eNCA journalist and survivor of the attack.
-
Unidentified Kidnappers: The perpetrators currently sought by police for abduction and financial theft.
-
eNCA: The media organization currently supporting their staff member through the recovery process.
-
South African Authorities: Investigating officers tasked with tracking the digital trail of the stolen funds.
Note to Readers: If you receive a WhatsApp message or call from Nkosikhona Malinga-Mnisi’s known numbers, please block the contact immediately and do not share any personal information.
