Police in Potchefstroom, North West, have issued an urgent call to parents and guardians to promptly file missing persons reports if they suspect their children are missing.
The appeal follows the tragic rape and murder of a nine-year-old girl, whose body was discovered at the Sarafina Sports Grounds on 19 September 2026.
In an exclusive interview with YOU FM, Ikageng Station Commander Colonel Mosimanegape Leie emphasised that swift reporting triggers an immediate police response.
“When we receive the information, we open the file. We open an inquiry to react and check how we can best assist in finding the child,” Leie explained.
Colonel Leie also expressed concern over what he described as a lack of vigilance among some guardians, warning that this could endanger minors.
He urged parents to be aware of who transports their children to school, who their teachers are and who their friends are. He also cautioned against allowing children to play far from home or run errands without adult supervision.
Highlighting the importance of a collective approach to child safety, Leie praised the ten Community Patrollers in Ikageng who actively assist the police.
“It takes a village to raise a child, and everyone, including teachers, nurses, professionals and ordinary community members, must be involved,” he said.
He concluded by expressing confidence in the South African Police Service’s safety measures, which will prioritise protecting children and other vulnerable groups.
The community has been left devastated by the incident, with residents demanding justice for the young victim and the prosecution of those responsible.
