More than a month later, the Free State police have confirmed that missing Central University of Technology lecturer Khahliso Makhetha was kidnapped. Five suspects have since been arrested in connection with his disappearance but he still hasn't been found. Makhetha went missing on 5 May.

BUST BY CAR

Police spokesperson Captain Stephen Thakeng said the police traced the lecturer's black Ford Fiesta in Lesotho. Thakeng said two suspects found in possession of the car were arrested and are currently detained in Lesotho. "Provincial Serious and Violent Crime members were assisted by Lesotho Mounted Police which led to the arrest of the first two suspects who were found traveling in the victim's vehicle. The pair will remain in Lesotho until proper procedures are followed to bring them back to the Free State. Three more suspects were arrested in Thabong and Bronville for their alleged involvement in Makhetha's kidnapping," he said. The three suspects, Mohali Albert Lekesi (37), Mosebi Mahajane (43), and Yonela Somacala (25), made their first court appearance in the Welkom Magistrates Court on Tuesday. "They face charges of kidnapping and hijacking of the victim. Their case has been postponed to 20 June when the suspects are expected to apply for bail,' Thakeng added.

MAKHETHA'S DISAPPEARANCE

Free State police spokesperson Captain Stephen Thakeng said Makhetha was last seen on 5 May in Meloding, Virginia, where he lives with his brother, Thabo. "The brother thought he was watching soccer at a friend's place, but he never returned home. On Sunday, 7 May, Thabo called his brother, and the cellphone rang unanswered,' police said.

THE SEARCH CONTINUES 

Thakeng said investigations revealed that Makhetha was hijacked, kidnapped and his vehicle sold. "The missing person has not been found yet and the search by the investigation team continues. The investigation team is working around the clock to trace the missing person by following all the leads," said Thakeng. He said Investigation teams were applauded for their dedication and commitment to the case, which led to the seizure of the vehicle and the arrest of five suspects.