By Staff Reporter
POLOKWANE-Louis Trichardt businessman Eddie Gouveia, who had been held captive for over three months, was found safe today, Friday, 24 January 2025, in Vuwani.
Gouveia, 51, was abducted on 16 October 2024, outside his business, Fire Fly, located in Industrial Street.
The kidnapping occurred in broad daylight when a group of suspects forcefully took Gouveia from the scene and drove him away, sparking a tense search across the region.
After 98 days in captivity, his safe return to his family brings relief to the community, who had been following the case closely.
Following Gouveia’s kidnapping, police launched an investigation that led to the arrest of eight suspects.
These individuals appeared in the Louis Trichardt Magistrate’s Court in early January for their bail applications, which were postponed. The suspects were remanded in custody, with their bail hearing now set for 3 to 6 March 2025.
The individuals arrested in connection with the kidnapping are: Mishack Gumede (51), South Africa,Nhlalwenhle Skhosana (32), Zimbabwe
Sakhile Gumbi (35), South Africa,
Khumbusani Nyathi (34), Zimbabwe, Ripfumelo Lodwish Ngobeni (29), South Africa,Abdulmani Mahomed(54), Somalia,Stanley Sithole (44), South Africa and Mulalo Mutswana (39), South Africa
While the identities of additional individuals involved in the kidnapping remain under investigation, more arrests are expected as the police continue to piece together the full scope of the crime.
The return of Eddie Gouveia has been met with widespread relief, with many in the community expressing their gratitude for his safe return.
The family, understandably overwhelmed, is yet to release a statement but has expressed their deep appreciation for the support they’ve received throughout this harrowing ordeal.
Authorities are now focusing on uncovering the full network of those involved in the crime and securing justice for Gouveia.
While the investigation continues, the focus remains on the safe return of the businessman and ensuring that the individuals responsible for his abduction are held accountable.
