In a major breakthrough, 19-year-old Kamogelo Baukudi, a Grade 11 learner at Martie du Plessis School in Bloemfontein, has been found alive after being kidnapped earlier this month. His rescue was confirmed on Friday morning, 27 June, following an intelligence-driven operation by the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Kamogelo was allegedly abducted on 5 June while walking home from school along Verneeniging Drive in Bloemfontein. According to authorities, two men posing as police officers were responsible for the initial abduction. The case sparked national concern, with many fearing for the young student’s safety. The circumstances surrounding his disappearance prompted the formation of a special multi-disciplinary task team, with SAPS working around the clock to track him down.
Free State police spokesperson, Brigadier Motansi Makhele, confirmed the successful rescue of Kamogelo in the early hours of Friday. He revealed that five suspects between the ages of 20 and 29 were arrested during the operation. “Three suspects were apprehended at a house in the Kanana location in Wepener, while the remaining two were caught on the road in Kwetla kasi and town, with the victim in their company,” Makhele explained.
These arrests follow the earlier detention of a 42-year-old police sergeant, bringing the total number of suspects in custody to six. The police officer, believed to be involved in the planning and execution of the kidnapping, was the first to be charged with kidnapping and extortion. The rest of the suspects now face the same charges and are expected to appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrates Court on Monday, 30 June.
The Free State Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane, expressed her relief and gratitude for the hard work and dedication of the officers involved. “The safe recovery of young Kamogelo is a moment of great relief for the family, the community, and all of us,” she stated. “I commend our members for their unwavering efforts, who worked tirelessly under immense pressure and public scrutiny. We will ensure that justice is served.”
The kidnapping case has highlighted growing concerns about criminals impersonating law enforcement officers to commit crimes. It also reignited public calls for stricter regulations and accountability within the police service, especially following the arrest of a serving police officer allegedly involved in the crime.
While the full details behind the motive for the kidnapping are still under investigation, the successful rescue of Kamogelo has brought hope and comfort to his family and community. The case will continue to unfold in court next week, with many watching closely as justice takes its course.
Kamogelo is now safe, receiving medical attention, and reuniting with his loved ones after a terrifying ordeal that could have ended very differently. The country breathes a sigh of relief as one more missing child is brought home alive.