“Security personnel, police and community safety structures were recognised for helping rescue four VUT students following a reported kidnapping in September 2026.”
22 October 2026 | Story by: Ntebogeleng Digasu | Picture: Sifiso Nomzaza
3 minutes read time.
Security personnel, police officers and community safety structures were honoured on 12 October 2026 for their coordinated efforts in helping rescue four Vaal University of Technology (VUT) students following a reported kidnapping on 26 September 2026.
Hosted by the Bedworth Park Crime Prevention Forum, the recognition ceremony acknowledged the contribution of MGUARD, the University’s contracted security service provider, alongside police and community members who assisted in locating the students.
Four MGUARD task team members received recognition: Mr Njabulo Sizwe Mthembu, Mr Teboho Gift Phoswa, Mr Tshepo Mohlophe and Mr Lwazilwenkosi Zulu.
According to information shared at the ceremony, the students were travelling to the Zion Christian Church in Sharpeville when the incident occurred. One student managed to escape and seek assistance at the Maxi Taxi area at Bedworth Centre, prompting a coordinated search.
The remaining students were subsequently located in a veld between Bedworth Centre and Sharpeville. MGUARD’s security dogs reportedly played a crucial role in finding them. The alleged perpetrators fled, and no arrests had been reported at the time of the ceremony. The students’ identities have been withheld for their safety.
Other recipients included representatives of the South African Police Service from Sharpeville Police Station, Sharpeville and Bedworth Park community leadership, Community Policing Forum structures, the Tactical Team, Meter Taxis and Warrant Officer Ntsala, Sector Manager for Sector 4.
The ceremony also acknowledged the coordination provided by the Bedworth Park Crime Prevention Forum’s Chairperson, Mr Sibusiso Kamogelo Mvundlela, known as Mokone, and Deputy Chairperson, Ms Sylvia Moshokgo.
Ms Machabaku Sekhoto, VUT Security Liaison Officer, recalled the anxiety experienced while the students’ whereabouts remained unknown and thanked those who assisted.
“It was very stressful that day because we did not know whether we would find our kids or not. Thank you to everyone who went above and beyond to assist our learners,” she said.
Mr Mvundlela commended the responders for their swift action and solidarity.
“Your fast response, unity and support showed true community spirit and saved lives. We appreciate your dedication to keeping our community safe,” he said.
Ms Moshokgo echoed his appreciation, emphasising the importance of cooperation in protecting the community.
Representing the Sharpeville community leadership, Ms Phindile Tlamane called for stronger partnerships with police and other safety structures, particularly to protect students living away from their families.
“We need to work together with the police to curb this crime, especially when it affects our students. They also deserve to live happily and safely where they are,” she said.
The ceremony was supported by Students Heights Accommodations, Bedworth Centre and The Muffineers (Pty) Ltd.
The recognition highlighted the importance of coordinated emergency responses and sustained cooperation between the University, security providers, police and surrounding communities in protecting students on and off campus.