By Doreen Mokgolo
- Tshegofatso’s family says he later admitted to being part of a kidnapping syndicate that sells young women.
- Angry Tshepisong residents have blocked roads and clashed with police demanding her safe return.
The people of Tshepisong Phase One are on the hunt for the man who allegedly kidnapped Tshegofatso Mothobi.
The 21-year-old was last seen on 20 May at a petrol station, where she got into a car with a man she had been chatting to online.
Her relative Lebohang Mokheseng told Scrolla.Africa they gained access to her phone after she vanished and found messages between her and the man.
“The guy asked for 10 pictures and arranged to meet her. They were talking all morning until they met, that’s where the chats ended,” said Mokheseng.
He said that out of desperation, community members lured the man to meet them.
“When they confronted him, he admitted he was part of a syndicate that kidnaps young women and sells them for R9,000.
“He said Tshegofatso was still alive and promised to take us to where she was being kept. But police came, took him into custody, and later released him,” Mokheseng said.
Since then, furious residents have blocked main roads and demanded action from the police. Public Order Police fired rubber bullets to break up the protests.
Thato Mothobi, another relative, said the family was shocked that the man was set free.
“We need answers. He was the last person to see her. Every day that passes, we fear the worst,” said Thato.
Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed that no one has been arrested and Tshegofatso is still missing.
“The police are searching for her. Anyone with information must contact Warrant Officer Teme of Roodepoort Detectives on 082 492 3963 or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111,” she said.
Pictured above: Tshegofatso Mothobi.
Image source: Facebook
