There has been a major breakthrough in the Bloemfontein kidnapping case of teenager Kamogelo Baukudi, who has been rescued.
The South African Police Service announced that the 19-year-old, who is a grade 11 learner from Free State school Martie du Plessis, was found alive in Wepener following a dramatic rescue operation in the early hours of Friday.
Kamogelo was abducted on June 5 while being driven home from school along the Vereeniging Drive in Bloemfontein.
His disappearance sparked widespread concern across the province, prompting the formation of a dedicated multidisciplinary task team led by Mangaung Metro district commissioner Major-General Arthur Peter Adams.
The police have arrested five African males, aged between 20 and 29, in connection with the kidnapping.
Three suspects were apprehended at a house in the Kanana location, Wepener, while two others were caught on the road between Kwetla location and Wepener town, with the victim in their presence.
Suspects due in court on Monday
This brings the total number of arrests to six, including a 42-year-old police sergeant who was nabbed earlier.
The police officer has already appeared in court on charges of kidnapping and extortion.
The five recently arrested suspects face charges of kidnapping and extortion and are scheduled to appear in court alongside the police sergeant on Monday.
The investigation remains ongoing as the police continue to pursue justice in this high-profile case.
Lieutenant-General Baile Motswenyane, the provincial commissioner of police, praised the efforts of the task team.
“The safe recovery of young Kamogelo is a moment of great relief for the family, the community, and all of us,” said Motswenyane.
“I commend our members for their unwavering efforts, who worked tirelessly following up every lead under serious public scrutiny. We will ensure that justice is served.”
Free State Police spokesperson Brigadier Motantsi Makhele emphasised the commitment of the law enforcement team to resolving the case, noting that further details may emerge as the investigation progresses.
