Steven Gruzd, a South African Jew, was found dead on Friday after being kidnapped for ransom and theft, the Jewish Community Security Organization (CSO) reported.
Gruzd disappeared at around 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 27, and was found lifeless two days later by the police, the CSO said.
Five individuals were arrested in connection with Gruzd’s murder in what the authorities said was an “express kidnapping,” South African news site News24 reported. One of the suspects revealed the location of his body, the report said.
The killing was being investigated as a crime and not as an antisemitic incident, with no clear pattern showing that Gruzd was targeted for being Jewish, the CSO said.
Gruzd’s family alerted the Community Active Protection (CAP) and the CSO. None of the suspects had links with terrorist organizations or terrorist motives, the CSO said.
South African Institute of International Affairs mourns death of Gruzd
Gruzd worked for the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) and headed its African Governance and Diplomacy Program.
“An integral part of the institute, Steve was known for his unwavering dedication to his work and his commitment to the policy community in Africa,” SAIIA said. “We will miss his brilliant mind, his deep camaraderie, and his gentle spirit.”
“His absence leaves a significant void at SAIIA and across the continent he served so passionately,” it added. “Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Steve’s family, friends, and all those who had the pleasure of working alongside him. May his soul rest in peace.”