An 11-year-old girl, Athi Zimi Mnguni, has been missing since Sunday, 30 August 2026, after she disappeared while playing at a nearby sports field in Nomcamba Location, Zinduneni Administrative Area, in Ngqeleni, Eastern Cape.

Eastern Cape police have mobilised several units and community members to search for the girl, who is living with a mental disability. Despite an extensive search operation covering surrounding areas, she has not yet been located.

What Happened to Athi Zimi Mnguni in Ngqeleni

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), Athi Zimi Mnguni went missing at about 16:00 on Sunday, 30 August 2026.

She had reportedly been playing at a nearby sports field with other children, aged six and nine, when she went missing. Her family was unable to locate her and subsequently reported her missing at Ngqeleni SAPS on Monday, 31 August.

Police have since launched a multidisciplinary search operation involving several specialised units and members of the local community.

The circumstances surrounding her disappearance remain under investigation, and police have appealed to anyone who may have information that could assist in locating her to come forward.

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Search for Missing Girl Continues in Ngqeleni

The search for Athi has involved members of the Mthatha Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS), Ngqeleni SAPS and the K9 Unit.

Members of the Mounted Unit have also joined the operation, while community members have assisted police by conducting door-to-door searches in surrounding areas.

SAPS said the search efforts have so far produced no positive results.

The continued involvement of multiple police units and community members reflects the ongoing effort to locate the missing 11-year-old and establish what happened after she disappeared from the sports field.

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Athi Zimi Mnguni Missing Person Details

Athi Zimi Mnguni is 11 years old and was last seen in Nomcamba Location, Zinduneni Administrative Area, Ngqeleni, Eastern Cape, on Sunday, 30 August 2026.

At the time of her disappearance, she was wearing:

• Blue jean shorts
• A maroon T-shirt
• A blue track top
• A grey hat

SAPS described Athi as light in complexion. Police also confirmed that she is living with a mental disability.

Anyone who may have seen Athi since her disappearance or has information that could assist investigators is urged to contact the investigating officer, Captain Isaac Nomanjila, on 082 697 5920.

Information can also be provided to the SAPS Crime Stop line on 08600 10111, reported at any police station, or submitted through the MySAPS App.

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Latest Update on the Search for Athi Zimi Mnguni

The search remains ongoing, with SAPS and members of the community continuing efforts to locate Athi.

Police have urged anyone with information about her whereabouts to report it rather than attempting to investigate the matter themselves. Even information that may appear insignificant could assist investigators in tracing her movements.

Athi’s disappearance has prompted an ongoing search across surrounding areas of Ngqeleni. Anyone who may have information is encouraged to contact Captain Nomanjila or SAPS as soon as possible.

Further developments will be reported as more information becomes available.

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