Missing Meyerton student found safe after months-long search

The months-long search for 21-year-old Naledi Zwane has come to a positive end after the North-West University student was located in Pretoria and safely reunited with her family. Zwane, who is a third-year student at the university, had been missing since June, leaving her family and those close to her deeply concerned about her whereabouts and wellbeing.

Zwane was reported missing on 9 June, after she disappeared at the Meyerton Licensing Department. Following her disappearance, Meyerton SAPS appealed to the public for assistance, urging residents and community structures to remain vigilant and share any information that could help establish where she was. The appeal was extended to media houses, security companies, churches, neighbourhood watches, family members, friends and other organisations that could assist in spreading the information.

The search continued over the following months, with those close to Zwane hoping that someone would come forward with information that could provide a breakthrough. The case also highlighted the importance of community involvement in missing-person cases, as information from members of the public can often assist authorities in following up on possible sightings and locating people who have been reported missing.

A breakthrough eventually came when a good Samaritan spotted Zwane in Pretoria. The individual contacted her parents and notified the authorities after recognising her, allowing the information to be followed up. The sighting gave the family renewed hope and enabled the police to begin the process of confirming whether the person found was indeed the missing student.

On Thursday, 3 September, members of Meyerton SAPS accompanied Zwane’s mother to Pretoria to confirm her identity. After the necessary checks were conducted, it was established that the woman who had been located was Naledi Zwane. She was subsequently brought home safely, bringing immense relief to her family and everyone who had supported the search since her disappearance.

Meyerton Station Commander Colonel Senzangakona Christopher Mohale expressed his appreciation to the community and all the organisations that assisted with the search. He said the safe return of Zwane demonstrated the value of cooperation between law enforcement, community structures and members of the public, particularly when families are going through a difficult and uncertain period.

“We are grateful to everyone who assisted during the search and continued to support the family. This outcome shows the importance of working together as a community, sharing information and remaining committed when someone is reported missing. Every piece of information and every effort can make a difference,” said Mohale.

The Zwane family also expressed their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stood by them throughout the search. They specifically thanked Meyerton SAPS, the Meyerton Community Police Forum, the K9 Unit, REDOPS, Securiteit Sonder Grense and Change Bible Church under the leadership of Bishop Mandla Mthethwa and Bishop Lady Mthethwa, as well as the congregation for their support.

Family members and friends were also thanked for standing with the Zwane family during the difficult period, while media houses were recognised for helping circulate the missing-person appeal and keeping the public informed. The family further expressed their appreciation to everyone who continued to keep Naledi and her loved ones in their prayers while they waited for news of her whereabouts.

The successful conclusion of the search has once again highlighted the important role played by communities in assisting police with missing-person investigations. Meyerton SAPS encouraged residents to continue working closely with law enforcement and to provide relevant information when they become aware of circumstances that could assist in locating missing people.

Meyerton SAPS reaffirmed its commitment to serving the community with dignity and integrity, while continuing to work with community structures and other stakeholders to promote safety. The station said the wellbeing of residents remains a priority and that it will continue doing its part to assist families and communities when they need support.

“The safety of our community is our priority. Meyerton SAPS will remain committed to assisting the community with dignity and integrity, while strengthening cooperation with all our stakeholders,” said Mohale.