Claudinne Thomas, a security executive and founder of Imbokodo Security Services and Gauteng Tactical Unit (GTU), has issued a warning that South Africans from all walks of life are vulnerable to kidnapping. According to Thomas, criminals are no longer solely targeting wealthy individuals, but rather looking for predictable patterns and opportunities to steal vehicles, valuables, or access mobile banking. This shift in kidnapping tactics has raised concerns among security experts.
Thomas cited statistics from the first quarter of the 2026/27 financial year, which recorded 4,638 kidnapping cases, a 172-case increase compared to the same period last year. This uptick in kidnappings has been attributed to organised crime syndicates using abductions and extortion as lucrative enterprises. Thomas emphasised that the traditional image of kidnapping as a sophisticated crime involving a wealthy individual and lengthy ransom negotiation no longer reflects the full range of kidnapping-related threats.
Thomas explained that short-duration or "express" kidnappings have become more common, where victims are forced to withdraw cash, transfer funds, or surrender valuables. In other cases, kidnapping may be linked to hijacking, robbery, or extortion. The motives and circumstances of these crimes vary considerably, making it essential for individuals to be aware of their surroundings and potential vulnerabilities.
Thomas highlighted several everyday patterns that can make individuals more vulnerable to kidnapping. These include predictable banking and financial movements, such as regular visits to the same ATM or bank, particularly around payday or after significant business receipts have been received. Repeated travel routines, digital exposure through compromised or poorly secured phones, working after hours, and social and entertainment activities can also create opportunities for criminals to observe movements and establish patterns.
Thomas stressed the importance of treating personal security as part of everyday planning, particularly for those whose professional responsibilities require them to travel, work late, handle money, or operate businesses independently. She encouraged individuals to recognise patterns and take proactive steps to reduce their exposure to potential threats. By being aware of their surroundings and taking practical security measures, individuals can minimise their risk of becoming kidnapping targets.
Thomas's personal experience as a gender-based violence survivor has informed her approach to security. She believes that security should be practical and accessible, rather than the preserve of wealthy individuals or large corporations. Thomas's experience has also given her a deeper understanding of vulnerability and the importance of taking proactive steps to ensure personal safety.
Thomas concluded that personal security should not be treated as an afterthought. She urged individuals to take responsibility for their own safety and not wait until an incident occurs to start thinking about security. By understanding how criminals identify opportunities and taking steps to reduce exposure, individuals can reduce their risk of becoming kidnapping targets and stay safe in an increasingly uncertain environment.
Key points
- South African security expert Claudinne Thomas warns that individuals don't have to be wealthy to be kidnapping targets.
- 4,638 kidnapping cases were recorded in South Africa during the first quarter of the 2026/27 financial year.
- Thomas encourages individuals to treat personal security as part of everyday planning to minimise their risk of becoming kidnapping targets.
