SAPS search for suspect after viral GBV video
Police say they have not made any arrests yet after a viral video of a GBV and kidnapping incident
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Bityi, Eastern Cape, is actively searching for a suspect involved in a shocking incident of kidnapping and assault against a 35-year-old woman. Police spokesperson Nobuntu Gantana confirmed that a video showing the suspect tying up and assaulting the victim has been circulating on social media. Gantana urged the public not to further spread the footage, as it could cause additional harm to the victim through secondary victimization.
The suspect, who is known to the police, remains at large. Bityi SAPS members are conducting a thorough search to locate the individual. Gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide continue to be treated as high-priority crimes, and the SAPS is committed to addressing these issues with the utmost seriousness. A case of kidnapping and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm was opened on Monday, 21 September 2026, following the incident.
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