Five suspects appeared in the Selosesha Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 15 May 2025, facing charges of robbery with aggravating circumstances and kidnapping. The accused—Tumisang Mahlakodisane (32), Morena Au (32), Moloantoa Mofola (36), Theta Monethi (42), and Menyatso Kganare (40)—are alleged to have kidnapped a victim on Friday, 21 March 2025, before extorting a large sum of money using his bank card.
According to police reports, the suspects held the victim captive until Tuesday, 25 March 2025, during which time they allegedly withdrew money from various retail outlets in Bloemfontein and conducted fraudulent money transfers to multiple bank accounts. The case docket was opened at the Selosesha Police Station following the incident.
Investigators identified the suspects through video footage and the vehicle used in the crime. The first two suspects were arrested by the investigation team, while the remaining three handed themselves over to the police as the net closed in on them.
Public Urged to Report Extortion
Extortion remains a serious crime, with common forms including blackmail, protection rackets, cyber-extortion, and financial extortion. Key warning signs include threats meant to instil fear, demands for money or property, and coercion forcing victims to comply out of fear.
The Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in the Free State, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane, has urged the public to report extortion by:
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Calling the National Extortion Hotline: 0800 911 011
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Using the Crime Stop number: 08600 10111
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Reporting directly to their local police station
The case has been postponed to Thursday, 29 May 2025, and all suspects remain in custody
