The South African Police Service (SAPS) has dismissed widespread social media rumours claiming that missing businessman and farmer Jerry Boshoga has been found dead, warning that such misinformation is false, harmful, and deeply distressing to his family.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Thursday, SAPS confirmed that Boshoga, who was kidnapped in November 2024, remains missing and that the investigation is at a critical and sensitive stage.

Authorities urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified information that undermines ongoing efforts by investigators.

“We can confirm that the investigation into Mr Boshoga’s kidnapping is still at a very sensitive stage,” said SAPS national spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe. “The businessman has not been found — neither deceased nor alive — and we urge social media users to stop the spread of false information.”

Who Is Jerry Boshoga?

Jerry Boshoga is a respected commercial farmer and businessman from the North West province. He was abducted in November 2024 after leaving his farm near Mahikeng. He was accompanied by his younger brother to a meeting at a KFC outlet in Centurion. According to investigators, he was taken by armed suspects driving vehicles with cloned registration plates.

The case has attracted national attention, with police confirming in December that the matter had been escalated to the SAPS Kidnapping Task Team, working alongside Crime Intelligence and the Hawks.
Despite the magnitude of the case, no public ransom demand has been made, and the motive remains unclear.

Misinformation Goes Viral

The SAPS media statement followed a surge in online speculation, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), where a viral post by user Global News Hub falsely claimed Boshoga had been found deceased.

“Respected farmer and businessman Jerry Boshoga, reported missing in November, has tragically been found deceased. Our condolences to his family. May he rest in peace,” read the post.

The message amassed over 500,000 views, sparking confusion, grief, and widespread misinformation until SAPS moved swiftly to correct the narrative.

“The spread of such falsehoods has caused unnecessary trauma, panic and anxiety for Mr Boshoga’s family, especially his mother, wife, and children,” said Brigadier Mathe. “If there are any developments in the case, the family will be the first to be informed by investigators.”

Family Frustrations and Allegations

In an emotional interview with the SABC, Boshoga’s mother accused police of withholding key information, alleging they had previously assured her that her son was alive.

“They used to tell me, ‘Don’t worry, he’s alive,’” she said. “That means they know who took him or where he is.”

Her remarks have sparked public concern and renewed pressure on SAPS to improve transparency and the pace of investigations.

During a separate interview, Boshoga’s teenage son made a tearful plea to his father’s kidnappers: “I need my father back. He is the only man I trust. I’m losing my mind and struggling to cope without him,” he said.

Another relative said his young wife and children are distraught. The family also claimed that someone demanded R10 million, which they say they cannot afford.

Focus on Cat Matlala

Police previously arrested Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, an alleged kingpin in a cross-provincial kidnapping and extortion ring. While officially detained on unrelated charges, Matlala has reportedly emerged as a key suspect in the Boshoga case.

Sources close to the investigation say that cellphone data, financial records, and witness statements have tentatively linked Matlala to the network believed to have orchestrated the kidnapping. However, no formal charges related to Boshoga’s disappearance have been brought against him to date.

SAPS Issues Cyber Warning

A senior member of the SAPS investigative team has warned that those who deliberately spread false information online could face criminal charges under the Cybercrimes Act.

“We are closely monitoring online platforms. Spreading fake news — particularly about active criminal cases — can have serious consequences,” the official said. “We urge the public to rely on verified updates from law enforcement authorities.”

Authorities say they are also reviewing some social media content for potential links to witness intimidation, obstruction of justice, or deliberate sabotage of the investigation.

Call for Cooperation

SAPS has again urged anyone with credible information to contact the authorities via Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or the MySAPS mobile app. All tip-offs can be made anonymously.

“We continue to work tirelessly to bring Mr Boshoga home,” said Brigadier Mathe. “We ask the public to respect the sensitivity of this case and support the investigation — not hinder it.”

Background: Kidnappings on the Rise

The Boshoga case is part of a disturbing rise in high-profile kidnappings across South Africa, many involving businesspeople, children, and foreign nationals. According to the latest SAPS statistics, an average of 18 kidnappings occurs daily nationwide.

The escalation of organised crime syndicates targeting wealthy individuals has forced law enforcement to strengthen specialised task teams focused on kidnapping for ransom, extortion, and cross-border crimes.

As of Thursday, Jerry Boshoga’s whereabouts remain unknown. Police are appealing for patience, vigilance, and responsible reporting. African Times will continue to track the investigation and provide verified updates as they become available.