Free State Police Sergeant Arrested In Alleged Kidnapping Of Grade 11 Pupil Kamogelo Baukudi

A major breakthrough has been made in the mysterious abduction of 19-year-old Kamogelo Baukudi, a grade 11 pupil from Martie du Plessis Special School in Fichardt Park, Free State. Police have arrested a 42-year-old sergeant in connection with the alleged kidnapping. The officer is currently detained in Bloemfontein and is expected to appear in court soon.

Free State police commissioner, Lieutenant-General Baile Motswenyane, confirmed the development, adding that the investigation has now reached a “crucial phase.”

“The involvement of any SAPS member in criminal acts will not be tolerated. Culprits will be held accountable — even if they are within our own ranks,” said Motswenyane.

Victim Pulled Over by Men Posing as Police

According to a SurgeZirc SA report, the incident unfolded on Thursday when Daniel Malebatso arrived at the school to fetch Baukudi. The two left the premises in a silver Suzuki Ertiga, with Baukudi behind the wheel. While driving on Vereeniging Drive in Ehrlich Park, they were allegedly pulled over by men in a white Toyota Hilux GD-6 double cab, flashing blue lights.

Provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Thabo Covane said one suspect was wearing a police uniform while the other wore a blue tracksuit. The Hilux appeared to be equipped with police gear, including a radio and blue lights on the front grill.

The man in uniform reportedly told Malebatso that the vehicle they were driving was suspected of transporting drugs. The suspects then instructed the pair to drive in a convoy to the Park Road police station — but only one vehicle arrived.

Victim Disappears After Vehicles Separate

While en route, a truck allegedly cut between the Suzuki and the Hilux. Malebatso claims he lost sight of the bakkie and never saw it again. He told authorities one of the suspects spoke fluent Sesotho and mentioned the name “Thipe.”

Police later recovered the cellphones of both Baukudi and Malebatso under a bridge on Ferreira Road. Authorities continue to investigate and are urging the public to come forward with any information that may assist.

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