As the search for kidnapped businessman Liyaqat Parker (65) continues, kidnappers have now demanded a R50-million Bitcoin ransom for his safe return.

Bitcoin is a global cryptocurrency, and is nearly impossible to trace.

Speaking to News24, family spokesperson and attorney, Walid Brown, said that although he has heard of these rumors, he cannot confirm it. “I don’t have such information although I also saw the rumour,” he said.

Netwerk24 reported that the kidnappers delivered the hefty demand via email on Tuesday 10 July.

South African Police Services spokesperson, FC van Wyk, said that there were no new developments in the case at this time.

“This case is also investigated by our provincial detectives. Please bear with us as we cannot divulge details of the investigation that has yet to be presented before a court of law,” van Wyk said.

Parker was allegedly kidnapped by five unknown suspects on Monday, 09 June at approximately 9.10am near N1 City in Parow. The suspects used a light duty vehicle (LDV) to transport Parker.

He is known as a founding member of the Food Property Group, as well as board member of the Al-Amien Foods group and board member of Brimstone Investment.

Parker’s family also made an appeal for him to be released and returned home safely.

“Our father and brother is an elderly man, so we also appeal to those who may be involved or know persons who may be connected with this crime, to just please release him unharmed before his health deteriorates,” the family said on Tuesday.

Picture: Pixabay

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Lucinda is a hard news writer who occasionally dabbles in lifestyle writing, and recent journalism graduate. She is a proud intersectional feminist, and is passionate about actively creating a world which is free of discrimination and inequality.