By Zinhle Cele (last updated 11 June 2025)
A Son Vanishes after a Promise of Opportunity
On 5 December 2022, 18‑year‑old Almonré Ashley Antovian Roman, a bright and charismatic stand‑up comedian and actor from Despatch, Eastern Cape, left his home for a film meeting—his last known appearance. CCTV captured him entering a white VW Kombi tied to local director Whanie Lewis. That was the last his family saw of him.
Contradictions, Confusion, and a Critical U‑Turn
The next day, Lewis denied any involvement, only to later admit to giving Almonré a lift after the family revealed CCTV evidence. He claimed to have dropped him off with unknown individuals in a white bakkie. But the video reportedly shows Lewis making a U‑turn and returning, not dropping him off. Lewis’s vehicle was later searched, but with no trace of Almonré. The family believes the evidence was likely erased.
An Investigation Stalls
The South African Police Service confirmed the Hawks took over the case, but almost two years later, no arrests have been made—no arrests, leads, or public updates. The family says they were told there is insufficient evidence, despite the dubious turnaround by Lewis.
From a professional investigative standpoint, a thorough and timely response is crucial in missing person cases like that of Almonré Roman. Investigators should have promptly secured all available evidence, including digital footprints such as phone records, social media activity, and surveillance footage from surrounding areas.
Engaging with family, friends, and eyewitnesses early on to build a clear timeline is essential. A multidisciplinary approach involving forensic experts, community policing, and psychological profiling could have provided valuable leads. Continuous follow-up and transparent communication with the public help maintain trust and potentially encourage witnesses to come forward. Such measures might have increased the chances of a swift resolution in this deeply troubling case.
Grounded in Love: A Father’s Resolve
Wesley Uithaler, Almonré’s father, describes his son as “one of a kind”:
“He walked into a room and, even if there was tension, it instantly eases up… His determination to make it in the entertainment industry was inspiring.”
He continues to plead with the public:
“No matter how insignificant the information might seem, please bring it forward. It might help bring our son back home or give us answers.”
An Ongoing Risk to Loved Ones
The family reports receiving threats: warnings that if they continued pressing for answers or involving police, Almonré’s body would be “dumped in the bush”. His mother, too fearful to speak publicly, watches helplessly from the shadows.
A Broader Crisis: The Missing in South Africa
While Almonré’s case is deeply personal, his disappearance reflects a larger national issue. Since 2023, over 740 children have gone missing without a trace in South Africa, part of about 2,000 missing children cases over the past three years. Nationwide, authorities reunited nearly 18,000 missing persons between 2020 and 2025, yet that leaves many families like Almonré’s in limbo.
A wave of kidnappings—4,028 reported in 2022 alone—reflects a broader trend of increasing violent crime, especially in the Eastern and Western Capes. These detention cases are often shrouded in confusion and legal roadblocks.
Why This Story Must Resurface
Although nearly two years have passed, crucial unanswered questions remain:
- What happened after that white Kombi left Pick n Pay?
- Why have authorities been unable to arrest anyone, even with conflicting statements?
Reigniting Almonré’s story now serves a critical function: it reminds the public that old cases don’t vanish—they often just fade from memory, along with their victims.
Lessons to Carry Home 🧠
- Demand diligence from authorities – Every missing person deserves a thorough investigation, regardless of the time elapsed.
- Trust but verify – When someone contradicts themselves later, it should raise red flags.
- Leverage community support – A collective voice can pressure officials into action.
Proactive Safety Tips for Everyone
- Stay informed: Teach youth to always tell a parent or friend where they’re going.
- Use technology: Share locations in real time with trusted contacts.
- Verify strangers: Whether offline or online, remain cautious—even exciting opportunities need verification.
- Act early: If someone disappears, report it immediately—there is no waiting period.
How You Can Help Today
- Pause and ask: Who really knows what happened that morning?
- Share this article—revive the narrative to put pressure back on officials.
- If you saw something unusual in Despatch on that day, please speak up.
- Report any information—even anonymously—via official channels.
Reported by: Zinhle Cele for Missing Person South Africa
An empathetic voice for forgotten cases, keeping stories alive and demands for answers loudly.
🧩 Want to help?
Stay informed, stay vigilant, and take action:
- 📧 Email: zinhle.cela@missingpersonsa.co.za
- 📱 Report via WhatsApp
- 🔗 Share official missing person report link
Reflect and Respond
What could you do today to help someone feel seen and protected?
Have you or someone you know experienced a loved one going missing? Share your story below—your voice could be the turning point in someone’s search.
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