Kidnapping Suspects Claim Wrongful Arrest, Plan Lawsuit

Five men seek damages after being held in connection with the **Kamogelo Baukudi** abduction case.

Five men previously taken into custody, accused of abducting **Kamogelo Baukudi**, are planning to sue the state, alleging wrongful arrest and assault. The men maintain that authorities lacked sufficient grounds for their detention.

Legal Grounds for Arrest

**Advocate Inez Bezuidenhout**, a legal expert, clarified that reasonable suspicion alone can prompt arrests. However, she added that the burden of proof lies with the plaintiffs should they pursue legal action.

The men were released once the police determined a lack of evidence connected them to the alleged kidnapping.

Bail Application Continues

Meanwhile, the bail hearing for a 42-year-old police officer, who faces charges of kidnapping **Baukudi** and extortion, continues in the **Bloemfontein** Magistrates’ Court. The Investigating Officer is expected to testify.

South Africa’s kidnapping rate has seen a troubling increase, with a 7.4% rise recorded between 2022 and 2023, highlighting the urgency of addressing this crime (BusinessTech).

Wrongful Arrest Claim

**Bezuidenhout** stated that the men would have to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that their arrest was unjustified to win their case against the state.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Z5hAiXf0k0o%22+loading%3D%22lazy

Ongoing Investigation

The situation remains tense as the legal proceedings unfold. The community awaits further details from the bail hearing and any potential lawsuits from the released suspects.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=qkjH75iHyyY%22+loading%3D%22lazy