Second suspect, Rangasamy Naidoo, appears in Durban trafficking and kidnapping case

A second suspect in a human trafficking investigation, 48-year-old Rangasamy Naidoo, made his first appearance at the Durban Magistrate’s Court on Friday. Naidoo faces multiple charges linked to the case, and the matter was adjourned after a brief hearing.

Charges and court process

Naidoo is charged with human trafficking, kidnapping, cybercrime, crimen injuria and procurement for prostitution. The matter was adjourned following his first appearance.

Main accused and related proceedings

The main suspect in the case is a 65-year-old Durban businessman who cannot be named under a court order because he has not yet pleaded to a sexual assault charge. He was arrested on 11 August on a J50 warrant of arrest and faces a total of 20 charges, including trafficking in persons, kidnapping and sexual assault.

After a brief first appearance, the businessman was taken to Westville Prison Hospital. Both men are expected to apply for bail on 25 August.

How the case began

The Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation said Naidoo handed himself over at the Durban North Police Station on 13 August.

KZN Hawks spokesperson Colonel Philani Nkwalase said the investigation stems from a 2022 rescue of four young women from Eldorado Park, Johannesburg.

“The case stems from a 2022 rescue of four young women from Eldorado Park, Johannesburg, who were lured with a fake SIM card job opportunity and were later forced into sexual exploitation at a Durban North property,” Nkwalase said.

Next steps

The court proceedings will continue when both accused appear to apply for bail on 25 August.