Free State Police has confirmed a major breakthrough in the kidnapping case of Kamogelo Baukudi, the student 11 who was abducted a few weeks ago.
Police spokesperson, Brigadier Motantsi Makhele, said that the 19-year-old in the early hours of Friday morning after a coordinated rescue operation was found alive in Wepener.
Kamogelo was abducted on Thursday, June 5, 2025, while he was driven home from school in Verneeniging Drive, Bloemfontein.
“His disappearance caused widespread concern and led to the establishment of a dedicated multidisciplinary Take Team led by the Mangaung Metro District Commissioner, General General Arthur Adams.
Makhele said that five suspects, between 20 and 29 years old, were also arrested.
He said that three suspects were arrested at a house at the Kanana location, while two others were trapped on the road between the location of Kwetla and the city of Wepener, with the victim in their company.
Makhele said that the last arrests with six, the total number of arrests in the case.
“The first suspect, a 42-year-old police sergeant, who was previously arrested, appeared in court accused of kidnapping and extortion, he said.
Earlier this week, the authorities also confirmed that a ransom of R7 million was made for the safe return of Baukudi.
Free State Commissioner, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane, praised the team for their hard work.
“The safe recovery of the young Kamogelo is a moment of great relief for the family, the community and all of us.
“I recommend our members for their non -repellent efforts, who worked tirelessly to follow each leadership under serious public research. We will ensure that justice is served,” he said.
Makhele said that the suspects are confronted with charges with regard to kidnapping, extortion and becoming a member of the police sergeant in the court as the investigation continues.
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