By Zinhle Cele | Published by Missing Person South Africa 08/06/2025
🚨 A Community in Fear, A Family in Pain: The Search for Kamogelo Baukudi Intensifies
A dark cloud continues to hang over the Fichardtpark community in Bloemfontein as 19-year-old Kamogelo Baukudi remains missing, days after he was abducted in broad daylight by men impersonating police officers. But now, in a disturbing twist, authorities have confirmed that the vehicle used in his kidnapping belongs to the police.
A 42-year-old police officer has been arrested in connection with Kamogelo’s disappearance, raising serious questions about abuse of power and trust in the very systems meant to protect us.
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🚓 What Happened on That Day? A Timeline of the Abduction
The incident occurred on Wednesday, 5 June 2025, just before noon.
Kamogelo, a Grade 11 learner at Martie du Plessis Special Needs School, had just been collected from school by his usual driver. They were traveling in a Suzuki Ertiga along Vereeniging Drive in Ehrlich Park Extension when they were pulled over by a white Toyota Hilux GD-6 Double Cab fitted with blue lights.
Inside were two men—one in a full SAPS police uniform, the other in a blue tracksuit.
According to the driver, the uniformed suspect accused him of delivering drugs and ordered both of them to hand over their cell phones. He then instructed the driver to lead the way to Park Road Police Station, promising to follow with Kamogelo in the Hilux.
Tragically, a truck reportedly separated the two vehicles along the way—when the driver looked back, the white Hilux had vanished. And so had Kamogelo.
🎙️ “We’re Living a Nightmare” – A Family’s Anguish
Kamogelo’s family has been left devastated. A close relative who asked to remain anonymous shared,
“Every second that passes without him feels like a lifetime. We just want him home, safe. He’s a sweet boy. He doesn’t deserve this.”
🧑✈️ The Shocking Arrest of a SAPS Officer
Free State Police Spokesperson Motantsi Makhele confirmed the arrest on Friday, 7 June 2025.
“A 42-year-old police officer has been taken into custody after forensic and investigative work linked the vehicle used in the abduction directly to him. We are working tirelessly to ensure justice is served.”
He added that more arrests are imminent, and the investigation is being treated with the utmost seriousness.
The arrested officer is expected to appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
Despite the arrest, Kamogelo’s whereabouts remain unknown.
💔 Missing, But Not Forgotten: Why This Case Matters
South Africa has seen a deeply concerning rise in kidnapping cases in recent years. According to SAPS crime statistics, kidnapping cases have increased by over 43% since 2020, often involving syndicates, scams, or—as in this case—abuse of authority.
What makes Kamogelo’s case so chilling is the apparent legitimacy of his abductors—flashing lights, uniforms, and an official vehicle.
“If we can’t trust those who wear the badge, who can we trust?” asked one concerned parent during a community prayer vigil held in Fichardtpark.
🔐 Safety Lessons for Every South African
This heartbreaking story offers a wake-up call. Here are some life-saving safety tips:
✅ Always verify before complying — ask for ID, badge numbers, and call a police station if pulled over.
✅ Avoid handing over cell phones unless it’s a legal warrant or verified official demand.
✅ Install location tracking on your family members’ phones.
✅ Drive to a public area or police station if you feel unsure about being pulled over.
✅ Teach children and teens about impersonators and how to stay calm but alert.
💭 Let’s Talk: Could This Happen to Someone You Love?
How safe do you feel when pulled over by flashing lights?
Have you or someone you know ever encountered suspicious law enforcement behavior?
We want to hear from you. Share your thoughts in the comments and stand in solidarity with Kamogelo’s loved ones.
📣 We Need Your Help to Bring Kamogelo Home
The investigation is ongoing, and Kamogelo has still not been found. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward immediately.
📞 Contact Captain Sabata Jafta Moseme at 082 526 2713 if you know anything.
🔗 Report a missing person here
Let’s amplify Kamogelo’s story. Every share, every lead, every voice matters.
🧡 Share this article. Tag someone who needs to read it. Help bring him home.
Published by: Missing Person South Africa
Author: Zinhle Cele
📧 Email: zinhle.cela@missingpersonsa.co.za
📱 WhatsApp to report a case
🔗 Report a missing person
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