The United Democratic Movement (UDM) revealed on Tuesday that its deputy president Nqabayomzi Kwankwa was kidnapped but returned safely after the party paid a R10 000 ransom.

The party said that Kwankwa was intercepted en route to the Cape Town International Airport. He was to attend the Presidential inauguration of Cyril Ramaphosa at the Union Buildings, in Gauteng, on Wednesday.

A ransom was demanded for his safe release, which the party paid.

Kwankwa’s vehicle and other personal items were stolen but the vehicle was later found abandoned.

“Mr. Kwankwa is in contact with the police and his family has been informed of what has occurred. The UDM is saddened by this horrific event, but is very grateful for his safe return. We wish Tshawe well on his road to recovery from this dastardly incident,” the party said.