Pretoria — The South African Police Service (SAPS) has urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified and false information on social media regarding the kidnapping of businessman Jerry Boshoga, following a wave of misleading online claims that he had been found dead.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe issued a strong statement on Wednesday condemning the misinformation, which she said had caused unnecessary panic and distress to Boshoga’s family.
“In the last twenty-four hours, unverified social media accounts have shared misleading and false information claiming that Mr Boshoga has been found deceased,” said Mathe.
“The businessman has not been found — neither alive nor deceased — and the investigation into his kidnapping remains at a very sensitive stage.”
#sapsHQ #ResponsibleSocialMediaUse: The #SAPS calls for responsible social media reporting around the kidnapping case of Mr Jerry Boshoga.
In the last twenty-four hours unverified social media accounts have shared misleading and false information claiming that Mr Boshoga has… pic.twitter.com/lcQAkGzUL5
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) July 31, 2025
She warned that the spread of such rumours not only jeopardises the ongoing investigation but also inflicts trauma on Boshoga’s loved ones.
“Social media users are urged to stop the spread of unverified information and to spare a thought for the family of the victim. This misleading information has caused unnecessary trauma, panic and anxiety for his mother, wife and children,” Mathe added.
The SAPS confirmed it remains in close contact with the family and assured the public that any developments in the case will be communicated directly to them first.
Boshoga, a prominent businessman, was reported kidnapped earlier this month under circumstances that police have yet to disclose due to the sensitivity of the investigation.
Authorities have appealed to the public and media to rely on official SAPS updates as the case progresses.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
