South Africa tops Africa for 15,000 kidnappings annually, ranks 6th globally

In terms of the number of kidnappings committed in 2022–2023, South Africa ranks sixth globally. South Africa currently holds the top spot in Africa and has maintained this position for the past five years.

Based on the rising frequency of ransom kidnappings, the country currently ranks sixth globally and is quickly emerging as one of the world’s most dangerous locations.

Crooks are particularly interested in high-net-worth individuals and their families, and they frequently demand enormous ransom amounts in exchange for their release. This results in the crooks making millions of dollars. 

The authorities received reports of more than 15,000 kidnapping cases between 2022 and 2023.

South Africa currently holds the top position in Africa due to the rising incidence of kidnappings for ransom, ranking sixth globally. This ranking is based on the fact that the number of kidnappings for ransom is increasing, according to the global crime index. 

The country trails high-crime countries such as Venezuela, Papua New Guinea, Afghanistan, Haiti, and Yemen.