Missing children is a harsh reality and the biggest fear for South African adults and guardians. Here’s what to do when kids go missing, including who to contact first.

Statistics estimate that a child’s disappearance happens every few seconds in South Africa. It can happen to anyone, and the investigation should be immediate. A common myth claims that a disappearance can’t be reported until 24 or 48 hours have passed. This is untrue. File a report immediately if someone has gone missing.

What should you do? Establish the child’s last known whereabouts. Call their friends and family. Look in familiar places. Recall details like their clothing and have a recent photograph ready. Report any missing persons to the South African Police Service (SAPS) without delay. There is no waiting period.

How safe are our children? It’s crucial to teach kids about safety from a young age. Does your family have an action plan? Children should know important numbers like home phones and the emergency line 10111. They should be aware of the nearest police station’s location and always have money for transportation like a taxi. Advise them to travel in groups and be aware of security cameras. 

Together, we can make South Africa’s children safer and prevent them from becoming just another tragic statistic. The nation’s history is marred by high-profile disappearances, including abductions during the Apartheid era that remain unsolved mysteries. Nobody wants their child to be the next case.

If someone you know has gone missing, file a report immediately. Working together, we can combat criminality and ensure no more of our children fall victim to this terrifying reality.