In 2021, the US Department of State declared South Africa a human-trafficking hub.
With child abductions and human trafficking on the rise, according to the figures released by the South African Police Service Missing Persons Bureau, at least one child is reported missing every five hours.
Although prevention is better than cure, should you ever find yourself in the unfortunate situation of your little one going missing, here’s what you need to do.
Alert security and management
If your bundle of joy vanishes in a public space like a park, a hospital, or a mall, inform management and security immediately. They may assist by sealing off all exits and making an announcement.
Report the child missing immediately
Do not wait 24 hours! Go to your nearest police station as soon as you realise a child has gone missing. With the help of the assigned police officer, you will need to complete and sign an SAPS 55 (A) form.
Provide a clear image
Provide a photo of the missing child to the police. Make sure that the image is of good quality (no filters). If you have any information that may assist the police officer, do not withhold it.
Contact Missing Children South Africa
Get in touch with Missing Children South Africa. The organisation will assist by creating mass awareness.
When a child goes missing, you will experience an overwhelming sense of panic and fear, however try to remain calm and take control.
An award-winning, true-crime documentary Girl, Taken will air this Sunday. This gripping and profound documentary follows the decades-long mystery of baby Zephany's kidnapping from her mother's hospital bedside just three days after her birth.
Watch Girl, Taken Sunday 19 February at 20:05 CAT on M-Net 101, or catch up on DStv after the documentary airs. Join the conversation on social media @mnetmovies on Twitter, @MNet on Facebook, @mnettv on Instagram, and @mnet on TikTok.