Fear and uncertainty have gripped the Mavasa family from Majosi village, following the disappearance of their eldest son, 32-year-old Kaya Emile, on Monday, 28 April. Kaya, who was reportedly distraught after his girlfriend had left him for another man, left his home in the Sukani Section to collect firewood, carrying a rope — but he never returned.
He was last seen wearing a black T-shirt and brown Relay jeans. The fact that he left with a rope has deepened the family's concern for his wellbeing. Witnesses reported that Kaya had gone to the house of the man who had taken his girlfriend, but when he arrived on Sunday, 27 April, the man was not home.
His father, Mr Daniel Mavasa, said a female relative who had been present at the house had called out to the community for help, and Kaya was later assaulted. He claimed that Kaya was bitten and, when he tried to flee, he was caught and prevented from leaving.
"We heard they later forgave each other after the incident. That same day, Kaya did not return home but instead slept at a friend's house less than two kilometres away. He later told his siblings he was going to collect firewood, but I fear something terrible has happened. I am heartbroken, and I no longer believe he is alive," he said.
He added that his son had been angry about the relationship and believes the assault may have pushed him to run away.
In a press release, provincial police spokesperson Col Malesela Ledwaba confirmed that Kaya had been reported as missing. "Attempts to locate him at relatives' homes and in surrounding areas have been unsuccessful. Investigations are ongoing," said Ledwaba.
The police urge anyone with information about his whereabouts to contact Investigating Officer Sgt Stanley Chauke on 072 554 3141, the Crime Stop number 08600 10111, their nearest police station, or via the MySAPSApp.