By Zinhle Cele | Missing Person South Africa
A Brother, A Son, A Friend—And Now, Missing
The community of Thokoza in Gauteng is holding its breath as loved ones search for 36-year-old Phakiso Lekhoehla, who was last seen on 12 May 2025 near the Mpilisweni Section Informal Settlement. His sudden disappearance has left a deep void in the hearts of those who know him.
Phakiso was last seen wearing black and white All-Star Converse shoes. According to family members, he left home that morning and never returned—a day that changed everything.
“He’s never done this before. We are broken and confused,” said his younger sister. “It’s like he vanished. No one saw where he went or what happened to him.”
A Vanishing That Shook a Community
Eyewitnesses recall seeing Phakiso walking along a dirt path near the settlement. According to a resident who has known Phakiso for years, nothing seemed unusual.
“He greeted me like he always does. Calm, friendly. I never imagined that would be the last time I’d see him.”
Community volunteers have since combed nearby areas, informal structures, and open fields—without success. Police have confirmed that a missing person case has been opened, and investigations are ongoing.
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A Call to Action: “We Just Want Him Home”
The Lekhoehla family’s life has been turned upside down. Days have turned into weeks, and hope is now mingled with fear. Every ring of the phone brings anticipation, followed too often by silence.
“We don’t want to assume the worst,” said Phakiso’s cousin, holding back tears. “We’re asking the public: if you’ve seen anything—anything at all—please come forward.”
South Africa’s Missing Person Crisis: A Growing Concern
Phakiso’s case is not isolated. South Africa sees thousands of missing persons cases reported annually. According to SAPS statistics, over 8,000 people were reported missing in 2024 alone—many of whom remain unaccounted for.
Experts urge communities to take missing persons seriously from the outset. Time is critical.
“The first 72 hours are crucial,” says social worker Nomvula Dlamini, who works with families of the missing. “Delays in reporting, especially in informal settlements, can lead to permanent loss.”
Staying Safe: What You Can Do
Whether for yourself or your loved ones, safety starts with awareness. Here are 5 essential safety tips to protect yourself and those around you:
- 📍 Always share your location with trusted friends or family when heading out.
- 🧠 Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, remove yourself from the situation.
- 👥 Stay in groups when walking, especially after dark.
- 📱 Keep your phone charged and accessible at all times.
- 🚨 Report unusual behavior or sightings in your neighborhood to local authorities or community groups.
Let’s Bring Phakiso Home
We urge anyone with information about Phakiso Lekhoehla’s whereabouts to come forward. No detail is too small. Your voice could be the one that brings him back.
📞 Contact the family directly at:
073 765 0542 or +27 66 511 1345
🔗 Report a missing person here
How You Can Help
💬 Have you ever experienced the fear of losing a loved one?
📢 Do you know someone who’s gone missing and was later found?
Let’s support one another in the comments. Your story might give someone else hope.
Please share this story, tag friends in Thokoza and surrounding areas, and stay alert.
Together, we are stronger. Together, we can bring Phakiso home.
📝 Story published by: Missing Person South Africa
✍️ Author: Zinhle Cele
📧 Email: zinhle.cela@missingpersonsa.co.za
📱 WhatsApp to report a case
🔗 Report a Missing Person
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