A woman accused of kidnapping a nine-day-old infant has been released on R4,000 bail by the Bellville Magistrates Court on Monday, 28 July 2025.
The accused, Sameemah Jacobs, faces charges of kidnapping and defeating the ends of justice after allegedly abducting baby Imaad Sharmar from his mother at Middestad Mall in Bellville. It is alleged that Jacobs used multiple false identities to deceive the baby’s mother, Imaan Sharmar, before taking the newborn.
Prosecutor Simon Salaahuddeen opposed bail, arguing that Jacobs could interfere with key witnesses or intimidate the child’s mother. However, the presiding magistrate, Gcobani Ndaleni, stated that witness statements had already been obtained by authorities, reducing the risk of interference.
The magistrate further noted that the defence had presented exceptional circumstances, including that Jacobs is the primary caregiver of a minor child who relies on her for daily care.
As part of her bail conditions, Jacobs is prohibited from contacting the complainant or any witnesses. She is also required to report regularly to her local police station until the case is finalised.
The matter has been postponed to 15 October 2025 for further investigation.
VOC News
