Six years later: The unsolved kidnapping of businessman Mohammed Noor Karriem

Police have confirmed that the trail for businessman Mohammed Noor Karriem, the owner of Giants Sweets & Sweets for Africa has gone cold, six years after he was kidnapped.

Police spokesperson, Sergeant Wesley Twigg said police had exhausted all leads and information which could help to solve the 2019 case, when queried by Cape Argus.

Twigg added that any vital information leading to a fresh lead could assist in the investigation.

“Kindly be advised that the investigating officer followed up all leads in a bid to make a breakthrough in the case, however the information came back negative,” he explained.

“We make an appeal to the public who have any information that can assist with the investigation to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the mobile application MySAPS anonymously.”

Karriem, 64, was forced into his kidnapper’s vehicle outside of his business in Epping on September 23, 2019.

His kidnapping may be linked to extortion.

Earlier claims were that a ransom amount had been paid after a R20m demand was made but this could previously never be confirmed.

Cape Argus is making attempts to reach Karriem’s family.

Hanif Loonat, crime activist and whistle blower said the nature of how the kidnapping was conducted was a clue.

"This was a different type of kidnapping, the vehicle that was used," he added.

"It is not the type used in this crime, it was an Avanza, the professionals use a 4x4.

"I didn't expect much of a resolve, this kidnapping had a different narrative.

"The day it happened, myself and Kader Jacobs were in the area and we responded in minutes."

Benedicta van Minnen MPP - DA Western Cape spokesperson on Police Oversight and Community Safety said the DA was deeply concerned by the alarming rise of extortion-related crimes that continue to terrorise communities, cripple small businesses and disrupt essential services across the province.

Since 1 April 2024, in the Western Cape, 331 arrests have been made in connection with extortion cases; only 1 conviction has been secured and 571 extortion cases remain under investigation.

"Extortion is no longer limited to certain industries. It has become a violent criminal enterprise that targets anyone perceived as vulnerable, especially those who cannot afford so-called protection fees," she said.

"Communities are being held hostage through fear and intimidation, with extortion often linked to murder, attempted murder, business robbery and kidnapping. These crimes are destroying livelihoods, forcing businesses to shut their doors and pushing already struggling communities deeper into poverty, " she said.

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Cape Argus