Grade 11 learner Kamogelo Baukudi found alive, 6 arrested in kidnapping case

Kamogelo Baukudi

Bloemfontein – The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Free State has announced a significant breakthrough in the kidnapping case of 19-year-old Kamogelo Baukudi, who was safely rescued in Wepener during the early hours of Friday morning.

Baukudi, a Grade 11 learner from Martie du Plessis School in Bloemfontein, was abducted on Thursday, 5 June 2025, while being driven home along Verneeniging Drive.

His disappearance sparked public outcry and led to the formation of a dedicated multidisciplinary task team under Mangaung Metro District Commissioner, Major General Arthur Peter Adams.

Following weeks of intense investigation, the task team successfully located and rescued the teenager during a coordinated, intelligence-driven operation.

Police confirmed that five men, all African males aged between 20 and 29, were arrested in connection with the kidnapping.

“Three suspects were apprehended at a house in Kanana Location, Wepener, while two others were caught on the road between Kwetla Location and Wepener town — with the victim in their possession.

“This brings the total number of arrests in the case to six. The first suspect, a 42-year-old police sergeant, who was previously arrested, appeared in court charged with kidnapping and extortion,” police spokesperson Brigadier Motantsi Makhele said.

Free State Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane lauded the success of the operation, saying: “The safe recovery of young Kamogelo is a moment of great relief for the family, the community, and all of us. 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.”

The five newly arrested suspects are expected to appear alongside the police sergeant in court on Monday, 30 June 2025, facing charges of kidnapping and extortion.

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