Central SA
Bloemfontein school prays for safety of learner after alleged kidnapping─── ZENANDE MPAME 10:27 Fri, 06 Jun 2025
The Martie du Plessis School in Fichardtpark is praying for the safety of one of its Grade 11 learners who has allegedly been kidnapped.
The men, who impersonated police officers, according to reports, allegedly kidnapped Kamogelo Baukudi (19) on Thursday (5/6) after school.
The school released a statement on the facts they have about the alleged kidnapping, including that Kamogelo was picked up from school by a driver working for his parents, and they were allegedly followed and stopped near Vereeniging Drive by men impersonating police officers.
“We can confirm that the police contacted me on Thursday night to inform me about the incident and see if we could assist in any way,” said Martie du Plessis School Principal Francois van Heerden.
The principal spoke to the police and Kamogelo’s mother late Thursday night, and the kidnapping was confirmed.
Kamogelo Baukudi was allegedly kidnapped on Thursday (5/6). Photo: SAPS
The complainant, Daniel Malebatso, arrived at Martie du Plessis School in Fichardtpark, as usual, to fetch Kamogelo. He left the school premises with Baukudi, driving the Suzuki Ertiga.
Whilst driving along Vereeniging Drive in the Erlichpark Extension at around noon, Malebatso alleged heard a siren sound from behind. They were pulled over by a White Toyota Hilux GD-6 Double Cab.
Vehicle was fitted with blue lights, ‘police radio’
“Inside the Toyota Hilux, there were two unknown male persons; one wearing a police uniform and the other a blue tracksuit,” said Free State police spokesperson Thabo Covane.
“According to his description, this vehicle was fitted with blue lights on the grill, and what looked like a police radio inside. The suspect wearing a police uniform confronted Malebatso and informed him that the Suzuki Ertiga he was driving with Baukudi was suspected of delivering drugs.”
The duo was separated, and Malebatso was then told to drive ahead to the Park Road police station and that they would follow from behind with Baukudi. The Toyota Hilux vanished when a truck passed between the Suzuki and the suspects’ vehicle.
“Malebatso remembered that one of the suspects spoke Sesotho with ease and even called out the name ‘Thipe’. A case of kidnapping and impersonating the police was opened at the Park Road Police Station,” said Covane.
Any member of the public who might have information that can help the police to find Kamogelo Baukudi, or might have seen the vehicles while in Vereeniging Drive, is requested to contact Capt. Sabata Moseme on 082 5262 713 or the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111.
