Gift of the Givers- A group of humanitarian aid workers from the well-known non-profit organisation Gift of the Givers experienced a traumatic hijacking incident on Friday evening, 3 October 2025, in Lingelethu West, Khayelitsha, Cape Town. The team was carrying out essential duties in the area when their vehicle was ambushed at a stop street by armed assailants.
According to reports, the Gift of the Givers team was intercepted by a blue Toyota Yaris. Between five and seven armed men suddenly surrounded their branded aid van, forcing the team out of their vehicle and into another car at gunpoint. The attackers then drove the aid workers around for approximately 40 minutes, eventually reaching a remote and dark location without electricity.
The Gift of the Givers team, known across South Africa and internationally for their selfless work in disaster relief, humanitarian aid, and community upliftment, has been left deeply shaken by the incident. Despite the fear and confusion experienced during the hijacking, none of the team members sustained physical injuries. However, the emotional impact has been significant.
Ali Sablay, spokesperson for Gift of the Givers, confirmed the incident and spoke about the team’s ordeal. “It was a traumatic event. Our staff were held against their will and taken to an unknown location. Thankfully, no one was harmed, but the experience has left everyone extremely distressed,” Sablay said.
He added that the situation could have been much worse if not for the quick response of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the resilience of the team.
Gift of the Givers Aid Workers Targeted in Armed Hijacking Incident
In a twist of irony, the hijackers attempted to disable the van’s tracking system by dismantling the dashboard. This clumsy effort had the opposite effect, activating the vehicle’s tracking signal and alerting the security team monitoring the system. This provided authorities with the ability to begin tracing the van shortly after the incident was reported.
The van was later recovered, although it had been stripped of several key components. The exact details of the suspects involved in the crime remain under investigation.
The Khayelitsha community, many of whom have directly benefited from the work of Gift of the Givers, reacted with outrage upon learning of the hijacking. Local residents expressed deep concern and disappointment that individuals who have dedicated their lives to helping others, especially in underserved areas, were subjected to such violence.
“We have always supported the communities that need us most,” Sablay said. “To see our teams attacked while trying to provide that support is heartbreaking—not just for us, but for the community as well.”
The SAPS has since launched a full investigation into the incident. Sablay praised the swift and professional response of the police. “We would like to commend the South African Police Services, specifically Lieutenant General Patekile, who sent out a special team to escort and ensure our team’s safety in the area,” he noted.
Despite the traumatic experience, Gift of the Givers has confirmed that it will not be deterred from continuing its humanitarian work. The organisation remains steadfast in its mission to deliver aid to communities affected by poverty, violence, and natural disasters across South Africa.
“Incidents like these will never break our spirit. If anything, they remind us why we do what we do. Communities like those in Khayelitsha depend on us, and we will not abandon them,” Sablay said.
The organisation is also reviewing its security protocols to ensure that future missions are carried out with enhanced safety measures for all team members.
This incident has sparked broader conversations about the safety of humanitarian workers in South Africa. As crime continues to impact both urban and rural communities, organisations like Gift of the Givers are urging authorities and the public to prioritise the protection of those who serve on the frontlines of relief work.
“Humanitarian work should never be a risk to those who offer help,” Sablay stated. “We are asking for increased support and protection so that we can continue to make a difference in people’s lives.”
As South Africa faces ongoing social and economic challenges, the unwavering dedication of organisations like Gift of the Givers remains a beacon of hope. This hijacking, while distressing, only reinforces the need to stand in solidarity with those who serve.
Source- EWN
