The search for a missing man from Tshivhulani Hatshifura outside Sibasa took a troubling turn when frustrated community members took to the streets, barricading roads with rocks, burning tyres and other debris in protest on Friday, 25 August.
Azwimpheleli Ramala (39) was last seen by his relatives on Thursday, 17 August. Although he was reported missing, and a search ensued, residents felt that the police were not doing enough to find him, eventually leading to the protest. The police had a challenging time trying to control the chaos, which also disrupted schooling in the area.
Azwimpheleli's older brother, Mr Mpedziseni Ramala, explained that his brother, who was in poor health, used to live with his aunt but had recently come to stay with him as the aunt was away, and no one could care for him. He mentioned that Azwimpheleli had only been with him for a few days before he mysteriously disappeared. "Before his disappearance, he was behaving strangely, saying he wanted to be in a cool and quiet place, but he did not specify where that was. Then he went missing, and he has not been seen since. We reported him missing to the police and searched everywhere, but with no luck. I am deeply concerned about his safety and health. He has a chronic medical condition and must take medication regularly. I wonder if he is taking the medication wherever he is," he said.
On Monday, 28 August, residents marched to the local Thohoyandou Police Station to voice their concerns about how the police were handling the case. They claimed to have provided the police with the names of a suspect but alleged that the police were not taking action. During a meeting at the police station, agreement was reached that the protest would be suspended, and both parties would collaborate.
The local traditional leader, Vhamusanda Vho Londolani Tshifura, expressed his distress over the incident. "This is the first incident of its kind here, and as the leader of the community, this troubles me deeply. My hope is that the police will work together with the community to ensure the safe return of the missing man," he said.
Limpopo police spokesperson Col Malesela Ledwaba confirmed that a missing-person case had been opened. "After the man was reported missing, the police conducted search operations at the homes of relatives, friends, and neighbouring villages, without success. Investigations are ongoing," he said.
Anyone with information that can assist the police in finding the missing man can contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Shudufhadzo Sivhaga, at 072 424 6288 or 015 960 1000. Alternatively, they can contact the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111, the nearest police station, or use the MySAPSApp.