A 26-year-old Johannesburg attorney who was abducted outside her Northcliff home on Wednesday evening has been rescued safely, while police have arrested suspects and recovered a vehicle linked to the crime.
Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed that the suspect is due in court soon.
Investigator Mike Bolhuis of Specialised Security Services (SSS) confirmed that Alex Soleil van Heerden was rescued in Vosloorus on Thursday night, less than 28 hours after she was forcibly taken outside her residence.
According to Bolhuis, Van Heerden had been travelling home in an Uber from Rosebank when she was kidnapped shortly after arriving at her apartment complex at about 6.57pm on 5 August.
Security footage reportedly showed at least three suspects forcing her into a white Renault hatchback before fleeing the scene.
SSS said the Uber driver immediately reported the incident to police, leading to the opening of a kidnapping case at Fairlands police station.
“The incident developed rapidly,” Bolhuis said.
Following the kidnapping, SSS, the South African Police Service (SAPS), family members, friends and colleagues worked together to gather information that could assist investigators.
An urgent public appeal was also circulated through social media and community networks as authorities sought information about the suspects and the victim’s whereabouts.
“The rapid reporting of the incident and the subsequent coordination between the SAPS, SSS and members of the public contributed to the ongoing investigative response,” the statement said.
Van Heerden was rescued in Vosloorus at approximately 10.30pm on Thursday.
“SSS is pleased to confirm the rescue and safe recovery of 26-year-old Ms Alex Soleil van Heerden, who was forcibly taken in a kidnapping incident in Northcliff, Johannesburg, on the evening of 5 August 2026,” Bolhuis said.
“The vehicle was recovered and suspects were arrested.”
Bolhuis said the successful outcome highlighted the importance of swift action in kidnapping cases.
“The response demonstrated the value of rapid reporting, information-sharing and cooperation between law enforcement, specialist investigators and the public,” Bolhuis said.
South Africa: Kidnapped Johannesburg attorney rescued hours after abduction in Northcliff
