The SAPS has dismissed social media rumours claiming that prominent farmer and businessman Jerry Boshoga has been found dead.

The Witness reports that Boshoga (46), from Silver Lakes in Pretoria, was kidnapped in Centurion in November last year. His abductors initially demanded R25m in ransom, later lowering the demand to R10m.

Since his disappearance, the family has received disturbing videos allegedly showing Boshoga being assaulted and pleading for his life.

In one of the videos, Boshoga, clearly injured and with a cloth stuffed in his mouth, is heard appealing to his mother: “Please pay, pay now so they can release me. It is too bad. I really need you. Please pay everything they want, I am begging you…”

In another recording, he begs his wife to ask his father to raise the money. The footage sparked widespread concern and led to a national outcry for his safe return.

Yesterday, posts began circulating on social media claiming that Boshoga had been found dead. SAPS has labelled these reports as false and irresponsible.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information, saying the investigation is ongoing and at a ‘very sensitive stage’.

“The SAPS can confirm that the businessman has not been found alive or deceased. These unverified social media claims are misleading and have caused unnecessary trauma, panic and anxiety to his mother, wife and children.”

She confirmed that police remain in close contact with the Boshoga family, who will be informed of any developments first by the investigating team.

Boshoga was last seen in Rooihuiskraal, Centurion, after telling family he was meeting someone. When his brother could not reach him later that day, a WhatsApp message from an unknown number was sent to Boshoga’s wife, along with a voice note in which he said: “I’ve been kidnapped.”

Mathe has called for responsible social media engagement, particularly in sensitive cases such as kidnappings, where misinformation can worsen the suffering of families involved.

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