Statement by Bantu Holomisa, President of the United Democratic Movement

The United Democratic Movement (UDM) would like to confirm that its Deputy President, Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, MP, was kidnapped today on his way to Cape Town Airport en route to the Presidential inauguration. A ransom of R10,000 was demanded for his safe return.

The UDM paid the ransom, and Mr Kwankwa was safely released, albeit shaken and traumatised. All his belongings, including his vehicle, were stolen.

His vehicle was later found abandoned.

Mr. Kwankwa is in contact with the police and his family has been informed of what has occurred.

The UDM is saddened by this horrific event, but is very grateful for his safe return. We wish Tshawe well on his road to recovery from this dastardly incident.