Jerry Boshoga still missing – ignore the lies, say police
Jerry Boshoga
As the distressing case of kidnapped Pretoria businessman and farmer Jerry Boshoga continues to grip the nation, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has issued a firm appeal to the public: stop spreading false reports.
Rumours circulated widely on social media this week claiming that Boshoga, who was abducted in November 2024, had been found deceased. SAPS has strongly denied these claims, confirming that Boshoga remains missing and that the investigation is still at a sensitive stage.
“The businessman has not been found alive nor dead,” stated SAPS national spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe.
The misinformation, shared through unverified social media accounts, has caused immense distress for Boshoga’s family—particularly his mother, wife and children. SAPS underscored that the family remains in close communication with police and will be the first to receive any confirmed updates.
Boshoga was kidnapped on 18 November 2024 in Rooihuiskraal, Centurion, shortly after attending a business meeting. Disturbing videos emerged soon after, showing the 46-year-old being brutally tortured while pleading with his family to meet his kidnappers’ demands. Initially, the ransom demand was R25 million, which has since reportedly been reduced to R10 million.
“Hello mother. Please pay, pay now so they can release me. It is too bad. I really need you please, mother. Please come and pay. Please pay everything that they want, please. I am begging you …”
In another video, Boshoga appears to plead with his wife to ask his father to help raise the ransom. The footage shows him visibly injured, with his hands tied behind his back and a cloth stuffed in his mouth.
Amid the investigation, speculation has surfaced about possible links to prominent businessman Vusi “Cat” Matlala. The family suspects the kidnapping may be connected to alleged corruption within the police, involving KZN police commissioner Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. However, these claims remain unverified and are not confirmed by SAPS.
The police have reiterated the importance of responsible social media use, urging users to avoid sharing or reacting to unverified information.
“The spread of false information has caused unnecessary trauma, panic and anxiety,” said Brigadier Mathe.
“Please spare a thought for the family of the victim. If there are any developments, they will be the first to be informed.”
SAPS also reminded the public that any credible information regarding the case should be reported to police immediately, as the search for Boshoga continues.
