By Zinhle Cele | Missing Person South Africa

A Heartbreaking End to a Family’s Search

What began as a desperate search to find Elias Nhlapho has ended in unspeakable heartbreak. Mr. Elias Nhlapho, a 60-year-old man suffering from dementia, was reported missing two days ago—only to be found lifeless under tragic circumstances in Tsakane, near the R23 road in Extension 22.

The confirmation of his passing came early yesterday morning from his son, who was overcome with grief as he confirmed the identity of his father.

“This pain is unbearable,” said the son. “He didn’t deserve to die this way. He was just a kind old man who got lost.”

Mr Elias Nhlapho, Last Seen Alive in Rockville, Then Silence

Mr. Nhlapho was last seen walking towards Rockville / Extension 13, wearing a navy-blue industrial freezer jacket, blue jeans, and black shoes. His family had raised the alarm as soon as they noticed he was missing, fearing for his safety due to his medical condition.

Community WhatsApp groups and local anti-crime units quickly shared Elias’s details, hoping for a swift reunion. But hope turned into horror when news broke of a pedestrian found fatally struck near Tsakane.

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Hit by a Stolen Car and Left in the Bush

According to eyewitness accounts, Elias Nhlapho was hit by a stolen white VW Polo Cross. One witness, who chose to remain anonymous for safety reasons, said:

“I saw everything. The car came fast, hit the man, and then two guys got out, dragged him off the road into the bush, and drove off. I think they panicked when they realized what they did.”

The vehicle was later found abandoned nearby. Police investigations confirmed the Polo had been hijacked. No arrests have been made yet, but a case of homicide has been opened.

Tsakane SAPS spokesperson, Sgt. Lindiwe Moloi, confirmed:

“We are investigating a case of culpable homicide. We urge anyone with information to please come forward. Your identity will be protected.”

Kasi Anti-Crime Unit Sends Condolences

The Kasi Anti-Crime Unit expressed deep sorrow, releasing a statement:

“We send our heartfelt condolences to the Nhlapho family. Sithi lwehlanga lungehlanga, dudu. These hijackers are becoming a serious threat, and we call on the community to help us identify and stop them before more lives are lost.”

Dementia, Crime, and Our Aging Loved Ones: A Call for Vigilance

Mr. Nhlapho’s story painfully highlights the compounded dangers faced by vulnerable members of society. Dementia sufferers are at higher risk of wandering off and getting lost, and in communities plagued by crime, the danger only increases.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, six in ten people with dementia will wander at some point. When that happens, time becomes critical: most are found within a 1.5-kilometer radius of where they disappeared, but delays can be deadly.

How You Can Help: Safety Tips and Support

To help keep vulnerable loved ones safe:

• Consider wearable GPS trackers for elderly family members.
• Label clothing with emergency contact information.
• Inform neighbors and nearby shops about the person’s condition so they can help if needed.
• Join community watch groups and share missing alerts promptly.

For anyone in crisis or caring for someone with dementia, organizations like Dementia SA offer resources and guidance.

A Community in Mourning, A Country in Need of Compassion

This story has left Tsakane reeling. The community is mourning not only a beloved elder but also the increasing sense of lawlessness and fear. It raises urgent questions:

What more can we do to protect the vulnerable? How do we rebuild trust and safety in our neighborhoods?

If you have experienced a similar situation or want to share your thoughts and condolences, please comment below. Your voice matters.

Final Words: Help Us Keep Our Communities Safe

To everyone reading this, please stay alert. Keep an eye out for the elderly, children, and vulnerable people in your communities.

If you have any information about this tragic incident, do not hesitate to contact your nearest police station or use the official links below.

🕊️ Let’s honor Mr. Nhlapho by staying vigilant, supporting one another, and being the community that never stops caring.

🔗 Report or Help in a Missing Person Case:

📧 Email: zinhle.cela@missingpersonsa.co.za
📱 WhatsApp to report a case: Click here
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Published by Missing Person South Africa