THE Cradock police have arrested 26 people after reacting to a hostage situation when community members apparently tried to throw a 36-year-old man into the Fish River earlier today.
Police spokesman Captain Laraine Jonker said the incident occurred while the community were assisting in a search for a missing person who was earlier reported to the SAPS.
“The community alleged that the apprehended man was responsible for throwing the missing person into the Fish River. Negotiations were held with the community until the apprehended man was handed over to the police station in Sikulu Street, Lingelihle.”
Angry community members gathered in front of the police station however and threw stones at police and private vehicles.
Suspects were arrested and charged with kidnapping, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, malicious damage to property, public violence and attempted murder.
They will appear in court again on August 24.
The saved man remain in custody.
The search for the missing person continues.