Missing teenager, Kamogelo Baukudi found Alive
Free State police have confirmed that 19-year-old Kamogelo Baukudi, who had been missing for 21 days, was found alive in Wepener in the early hours of Friday morning during a coordinated rescue operation.
Baukudi, a Grade 11 learner, was reportedly abducted while being driven home from school on Verneeniging Drive in Bloemfontein.
His disappearance sparked a public outcry and led to the formation of a special multidisciplinary task team to investigate the case.
According to police, five suspects — African males aged between 20 and 29 — were arrested in connection with the abduction.
Three 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 still in their possession.
These arrests follow the earlier detention of a 42-year-old police sergeant, bringing the total number of suspects in custody to six.
A police officer has already appeared in court, facing charges of kidnapping and extortion.
The rescue mission, which was part of an intelligence-led operation, was the culmination of relentless investigative efforts by law enforcement under heightened public scrutiny.
READ MORE: ’Maximum resources’ in search for Bloemfontein teen
Free State Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane praised the police teams involved.
“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 latest arrested suspects are expected to appear in court on Monday, alongside the police sergeant.
They face charges related to kidnapping and extortion.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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