Johannesburg – South African police have turned to INTERPOL as they intensify efforts to locate Pretoria entrepreneur and farmer, Jerry Boshoga, who vanished almost a year ago after leaving a business meeting in Centurion. His disappearance, now drawing regional attention, has raised concerns even here in Eswatini, where families with relatives working or studying in South Africa continue to follow cross border safety issues closely.
Boshoga was taken on 18 November last year. His kidnappers initially demanded R60 million before lowering the figure to R10 million. Despite numerous search operations across Gauteng and Limpopo, police say there has been no breakthrough. The South African Police Service confirmed that a multidisciplinary team remains deployed and that the case has reached a sensitive stage.
His name resurfaced recently at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, which is examining claims that criminal syndicates have penetrated parts of the justice system. Testimony heard at the commission linked the case to tender mogul Vusumuzi Cat Matlala, who has been identified by the family as the main suspect. Evidence from the commission also suggested that investigators had previously raided properties connected to him, but without success.
The emotional strain on Boshoga’s family has been severe. They have now withdrawn from media interviews, with relatives saying the uncertainty has taken a toll on their health and daily lives. Mental health specialists interviewed by South African broadcasters said the absence of closure often leaves families caught in a cycle of hope and despair, leading to sleeplessness, anxiety and depression.
Three months ago, his mother made a public plea for his safe return, describing the situation as unbearable. As the one year mark approaches next month, the family says they continue to wait for updates from investigators.
Suspended Deputy National Commissioner for Crime Detection, Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya, speaking before Parliament this week, admitted he cannot confirm whether Boshoga is still alive. He told MPs that no communication from the kidnappers has been received for months, despite earlier videos showing the businessman being assaulted while pleading for his life.
Sibiya detailed multiple operations carried out in Gauteng and Limpopo, including searches at homes linked to Matlala. He said officers followed leads provided by the family, monitored mobile phones believed to be connected to the kidnappers and worked with intelligence units, but none of the efforts yielded results.
The commission also heard about private investigator Calvin Rafadi, who allegedly tried to help the family but whose relationship with Matlala raised further questions. WhatsApp messages presented as evidence indicated that Rafadi reportedly received money from Matlala for fuel, rent and student fees. Members of the public interviewed by the broadcaster feared this could have compromised the case.
Legal experts caution that evidence presented before the commission may not necessarily be admissible in a criminal court, meaning investigators must still build a solid case before arrests or charges can be pursued.
SAPS maintains that crime intelligence units, tactical teams and organised crime investigators are still working on the matter, and the family is being updated regularly. Police officials declined to comment on Matlala’s alleged involvement, saying the investigation is ongoing.
Social media has previously carried unverified claims that Boshoga had died, but authorities have warned against circulating such information. The lack of answers, however, is fuelling speculation about possible internal sabotage, cover ups or even murder.
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