KWATHEMA - A shocking twist in the case of 37-year-old Ntombifuthi Rumo, who is accused of staging her own kidnapping.
Together with her alleged accomplice, she was arrested after investigations by Kwa-Thema detectives, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, and Crime Intelligence.
Investigations revealed that Rumo allegedly conspired with an accomplice to stage her own kidnapping in an attempt to extort money from her cousin.
Both suspects face charges of fraud, defeating the ends of justice, and staging a crime scene.
Authorities have indicated that they are pursuing an additional suspect in the case.
Rumo was reported missing on 7 October.
Later, a man called from her cellphone, demanding R40,000 for her release.
Threatening messages followed, along with a video showing her naked, injured and pleading with her mother for help.
During the search for Rumo, Thomas Sibeko was wrongfully arrested for kidnapping.
Rumo was found near Kwa-Thema cemetery on 20 October, just a day before a community prayer service for her safe return.
The incident has sparked fears that false reports of GBV and kidnapping may undermine genuine victims' quest for justice.
The matter returns to court on 28 October to allow the second suspect to appear in person.
eNCA's Bafedile Moerane has more details in the video above.