Police Sergeant Arrested in Connection with 19-Year-Old’s Disappearance

(The Post News)- Progress has been made in connection with the kidnapping case of 19-year-old pupil Kamogelo Baukudi. The teenager was allegedly abducted on Thursday, June 5, at around 11:55 am in the Free State by individuals initially thought to have been impersonating authorities. It has been reported that the complainant, Daniele Malebatso, was accompanying the Marti Du Plesis learner from school in Fichardt Park that day. Together with Baukudi, they departed from the school in a Suzuki Ertiga. Amidst their trip home, the two were stopped at Vereeniging Drive in Ehrlich Park Extension by two men driving a white Toyota Hilux GD-6 Double Cab.

The South African Police Service described the manner in which the suspects were dressed in a statement on Friday. “One was wearing a police uniform, and the other blue tracksuits,” said SAPS in a statement. Following investigations, a 42-year-old police officer has been apprehended in connection with the case since the investigation was launched. Investigations led to the arrest of the man after it was revealed that he is the owner of the vehicle involved in the alleged abduction.

The South African Police Services released a statement on Sunday confirming the arrest of the police sergeant, stating, “A 42-year-old has been taken in for questioning and detained in Bloemfontein. He will appear in court soon in connection with the case.” The teenage boy remains missing, and authorities continue to appeal to the public for any assistance and information regarding the case.

Police Spokesperson, Motantsi Makhele, revealed that following the arrest of the police officer, “through the process of interrogating and questioning him and also following some leads, they took a decision that they were going to keep him in custody, and he will be formally charged with kidnapping, which, if things go well, he can appear in court tomorrow on the same charge of kidnapping.” Makhele further explained that “there might be additional charges which will be added based on the progress or any other developments in this matter.”

Thus far, it has been reported that the relationship between the owner of the vehicle, being the 42-year-old Sergeant, and the kidnappers has not yet been confirmed. Police have also disclosed the possibility of there being more individuals to question pending further developments regarding the case.