Fear consumes parents as it has now become the norm to see missing children trending on social media. Children have become the prey of predators, as they are often abducted, kidnapped, or murdered. This is not just a Lusikisiki crisis; it has spread throughout South Africa and has become an epidemic.
As we begin the 16-day campaign to end violence against women and children, we are reminded that society has a responsibility to eliminate the statistics of crimes against children. This involves working hand in hand with the police to report crimes that threaten the livelihood of children.
The Kohli family in the Mdikane community has reported the disappearance of their 6-year-old Oluchuku Wongile Obi on October 16, 2022. The child was last seen wearing a black Ben 10 t-shirt, a yellow hood, and green track pants.
The case was reported to the police and a community traditional leader. Zodwa Kohli who is the grandmother of the child, said that she is not satisfied with how the case is being handled.
We, as the family, have taken it into our own hands to search for the child. We utilized platforms such as the child’s school and social media. We are searching for him in neighboring rivers too. – said Zodwa
According to Missing Children South Africa, a child goes missing every five hours in the country. Missing Children South Africa’s statistic indicates that 77% of children are found. Sadly, this still leaves us with at least 23% of the children being either never found, trafficked, or found deceased.
As this is an ongoing fear and nightmare for parents, it serves as a reminder to safeguard children.
