The escalating number of kidnappings in South Africa has reached unprecedented levels, with recent incidents shedding light on the dire reality faced by citizens. According to Statistics SA (StatsSA), more than 16 000 kidnappings are recorded annually in South Africa. Shockingly, 85% of these victims are women and children. Reasons for the kidnapping range from ransom demands to human trafficking. This evening on our Legal Matters feature, we talk about the child abduction from the criminal and family perspective. To help us navigate this sensitive issue we’re joined by Claire Thomson, an attorney in private practice at Witz Inc Attorneys in Johannesburg. Claire is a specialist family law practitioner, a trained mediator and a notary public. She is also practices commercial law, AND Jenna Jacobs, a Director at Witz Inc. Law Firm.