Kidnapped St Clair businessman freed

Kidnapped St Clair businessman John Chay who was kidnapped two weeks ago, was released outside the St Clair Medical Centre around 4.45 am yesterday, after a ransom of over $200,000 was paid to kidnappers. The money was reportedly paid to kidnappers almost one hour before Chay was released. The traumatised businessman  appeared to be unhurt and contacted relatives after his release. He was treated at the St Clair Medical Centre and allowed to return to his Elizabeth Street, St Clair home. The 42-year-old businessman is expected to give a statement to officers of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad tomorrow. The businessman told AKS officers that he was not in a position to give any statement until Monday because of his emotional state. Sunday Newsday learned that Chay was kept in bushes during his ten-day stay with kidnappers.

A female relative of Chay who preferred to remain anonymous said that he was not hurt by his abductors and he was resting. She thanked all those who offered prayers for the businessman’s safe release and those who offered support to his family. A $5 million ransom was initially demanded by kidnappers for the release of Chay. He was kidnapped two weeks ago by three masked gunmen who forced him off the road, at Serpentine Road, St Clair. He crashed into a wall and was then ordered at gunpoint into a car with three kidnappers. The kidnapping of Chay for ransom was the 43rd for the year so far.