Cape Town kidnapping: Family pleads for businessman’s release

The case of Liyaqat Parker is the Cape Town kidnapping making headlines this week. Now, the family have issued a desperate statement pleading for his safety.

Cape Town kidnapping: Liyaqat Parker still missing

65-year-old Parker was kidnapped on Monday by five unknown men at his office in fairway Close N1 City. In a statement released on Tuesday, the family sent a message to those involved.

“Our father and brother is an elderly man so we also appeal to those who may be involved or know persons who may be connected with this crime, to just please release him unharmed before his health deteriorates.”

“Liyaqat is a devoted family man, a known astute businessman who built up the business through sheer hard work over many years, a community worker and philanthropist, having served as a member of The Friends of the Children’s Hospital Association for several years.”

While specific details of the kidnapping were not known immediately after the incident, new details have since emerged.

Read: Nationwide SAPS program to reduce crime is already showing results

According to police, a double cab vehicle followed Parker into the basement parking. The guards at the entrance had reportedly been forced into a toilet.

“They then continued into the basement where they forced the businessman into their vehicle and drove off in an unknown direction,” Police spokesperson Captain FC Van Wyk told the media.

Police have also said that detectives are working around the clock to locate Parker. Armed robbery and kidnapping cases are currently being investigated.

Parker is described as a prominent figure in business and is the former boss of Food World. Together with his brother Rashied, he is a partner in the FPG Property Fund company.

The kidnapping has also raised concern over an apparent trend of Cape businessmen being kidnapped.

During the same period last year, Sadeck Zhaun Ahmed was kidnapped outside of his business in Salt River. Ahmed is the owner of Zhauns Business Opportunity Machines. He was only returned to his family in October 2017.