Court hears of terror related findings in couple's kidnapping case
A 38-year-old man, believed to be an ISIS affiliate and accused of abducting an elderly couple in northern KZN, apparently had a terror manual on his phone when he was arrested.
This and other details emerged in papers presented before the Verulam Magistrate's Court.
Sayfydeen Aslam del Vecchio and his two co-accused - Fatima Patel and Themba Xulu applied for bail yesterday.
They're thought to be behind the disappearance of missing botanists Rod and Rachel Saunders.
Del Vecchio and Patel are also facing terror-related charges with Del Vecchio an additional charge of malicious damage to property.
ALSO READ: Trio linked to CT couple's kidnapping to remain in custody
In an affidavit opposing their bail application, the investigating officer explained having found what appeared to be an ISIS flag as well as a drone, two generators and camping and paintball equipment that was allegedly bought with the Saunders' funds.
The officer says they also seized a number of devices from Del Vecchio and Patel when they were nabbed near Eshowe.
The affidavit said a preliminary forensic report on their devices revealed communications between Del Vecchio and an unknown person discussing 'bomb-making' techniques.
The trio face charges of kidnapping, robbery and theft; while the case returns to court later this month.