THE MOTI BROTHERS MYSTERY DEEPENS

So many questions remain unanswered after the family fled to Dubai – but they insist it’s for their safety

- JANA VAN DER MERWE

THE kidnapping of four young brothers by a gun-wielding gang seemed like something from a movie. But what came after that also resembles a Hollywood script: a family fleeing to another country, allegations of dirty money being involved, and the police barred from investigating by the boys’ parents – a claim the family then deny.

The case of the missing Moti siblings – Zia (15), Alaan (13), Zayyad (11) and Zidan (7) – made headlines across South Africa when the boys were kidnapped a few months ago. The children were abducted on their way to school and held hostage for three weeks. Their parents, Naazim and Shakira, welcomed the support they received from the public.

But very little detail emerged following the children’s release – and now there are more questions than ever. The Motis have since left for Dubai and police say Naazim and Shakira obtained an interdict barring them from questioning the boys or any family members.

Yes, they have left the country, Naazim confirms in a statement to YOU. But he denies they were granted an interdict which prevents the police talking to any member of the family.

“Please understand why we have been silent,” Naazim says. “Since our four sons were returned to us, we have been living in fear of reprisal, which could be caused by speaking out and drawing further attention to ourselves.

“Our boys came home to us but have not yet been able to live freely and without fear. We have been forced to make some difficult decisions to ensure their safety and well-being, despite the recent and sudden backlash.