Police made a major breakthrough in the Kamogelo Baukudi kidnapping case following the arrest of five male suspects when the 19-year-old Martie du Plessis learner was found early this morning in Wepener, Free State.

According to Bloemfontein Courant, the five suspects will join the first suspect, a 42-year-old police sergeant, in court on Monday on charges of kidnapping and extortion.

Free State police commissioner Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane commended the police for the intensive weeks of investigation that led to the safe recovery of Kamogelo.

“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,” he said.

According to Brigadier Motantsi Makhele, an intelligence-driven operation led to the apprehension of the five suspects aged between 20 and 29. “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,” Makhele explained.

Kamogelo was kidnapped by two males impersonating police officers in Vereeniging Drive in Bloemfontein after he was fetched at school on June 5. The local community has remained hopeful for his safe return.

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