Hawks Cyber Officer in Dock Over Nelson Mandela Bay Kidnappings

​In a stunning blow to law enforcement integrity, a 42-year-old Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) officer attached to the Cyber Crime Division in Pretoria has been arrested in connection with a violent kidnapping and extortion ring.

​Warrant Officer Xolani Busakwe was apprehended in Gauteng by the Hawks’ Gqeberha tactical team following an intensive, prolonged investigation. He appeared in the Gqeberha Magistrates’ Court facing severe charges linked to organized crime, including alleged kidnapping, extortion, and violations of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA).

​Investigators have tied the sprawling probe to two high-profile abduction cases that rattled the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro. The first incident occurred on June 21, 2025, when Lindsay Knowlden was forcefully snatched by four armed men after her husband was pistol-whipped outside the Fresh Produce Market in Markman. She was released unharmed days later following a ransom demand.

ADVERTISEMENT

​A parallel incident unfolded on August 11, 2025, in Kariega, where Theresa Minnie was abducted from her residence after a gang targeted her husband, Karl Minnie, eventually extracting a R1.1-million ransom demand before freeing her. Recognizing striking similarities in the modus operandi, investigators connected the cases to a syndicate also historically linked to broader regional crimes, including armed robberies.

​With Busakwe’s apprehension—and two prior arrests previously secured in the ongoing sweep—the total number of co-accused tied to the wider enterprise has climbed, drawing intense public scrutiny over criminality within policing ranks.

​Busakwe remains remanded in custody. His legal representatives indicated intentions to launch a formal bail application as proceedings continue.