6-year-old Rethabile Vilakazi goes missing in Mpumalanga! Police in Piet Retief, Mpumalanga, are appealing to the public for help in locating six-year-old Rethabile Okuhle Vilakazi, who went missing on January 28, 2025.
Disappearance of Rethabile Vilakazi
On the day of her disappearance, Rethabile’s mother went to the bus stop to collect her after school. She had used scholar transport, but when her mother arrived, her daughter was nowhere to be found.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane explained that the bus arrived earlier than usual, and Rethabile had gotten off with other learners.
“The child went on the path to her home, but she did not reach home,” said Ndubane.
Since then, police and community members have been searching the area but have not been able to locate her.
Police and Family Desperately Searching
The Vilakazi family reported the child missing at the Piet Retief Police Station on January 30, 2025.
“A search is still being conducted in the area,” added Ndubane.
Authorities are urging anyone with information that could help locate Rethabile to come forward.
How to Report Any Information
Police have shared contact details for those who may have information about Rethabile’s whereabouts.
People can contact:
- Warrant Officer Martin Ntshangase at 072 638 1858 or 082 922 9748
- Crime Stop at 08600 10111
- Submit information via the MYSAPS App
All details provided will be kept confidential, and callers may choose to remain anonymous.
Growing Concerns Over Child Disappearances
The disappearance of Rethabile has left many in fear and distress, as concerns about child kidnappings and missing children in South Africa continue to rise.
Many parents are worried about their children’s safety, especially those who rely on public or scholar transport.
Some community members have called for stricter safety measures, including:
- Supervision at bus stops
- Tracking devices for children
- Increased police patrols in school zones
Tragic Case of Three-Year-Old Abraham Tsheole
In a separate heartbreaking case, a three-year-old boy from Orange Farm, Johannesburg, was allegedly poisoned by his 18-year-old brother.
The toddler, Abraham Lebogang Tsheole, was playing outside while his family, including his mother, Nthabiseng Esther Tsheole, were inside the house.
They did not realize that the 18-year-old suspect was allegedly plotting to poison him.
Brother Charged with Murder
The accused appeared in the Vereeniging Magistrate’s Court on Monday to face murder charges.
The tragic death has left the Orange Farm community in shock, with many struggling to understand why a brother would commit such a horrific crime.
Public Reaction and Call for Action
Both cases—Rethabile’s disappearance and Abraham’s tragic murder—have raised concerns about child safety in South Africa.
Many South Africans have taken to social media to express their grief and frustration.
One Twitter user wrote:
“This is heartbreaking. We need to do more to protect our children. Too many are going missing or being harmed.”
Another commented:
“Parents need to be extra careful. We are living in dangerous times.”
Final Thoughts
As the search for Rethabile Vilakazi continues, authorities and community members are pleading for assistance.
Meanwhile, the case of Abraham Tsheole serves as a grim reminder that children are often the most vulnerable victims of crime.
Police and child safety organizations urge parents, caregivers, and communities to remain vigilant and take extra precautions to protect their children.
In other news – Oscar Mbo treats himself to a luxury BMW X5M – WATCH
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This week, he took to social media to showcase his latest purchase: a BMW X5M, an elite vehicle known for its luxury, power, and speed. The flamboyant DJ shared a video clip on his social media platforms, capturing the moment he collected the BMW X5M. The post quickly gained traction, with thousands of fans congratulating him on his new ride. Read More
