By Zinhle Cele | Missing Person South Africa (Updated on 11 June 2025)
A Beautiful Soul, A Tragic Mystery: What Happened to Sibongile Hadebe?
In the heart of Mamelodi, Pretoria, a family’s hope has turned into anguish, and a community is left grappling with shock and sadness. Sibongile Hadebe, affectionately known as “Sibo,” was last seen around 18–19 May 2025, physically by her boyfriend. What began as a desperate search for a missing daughter has now become a grim quest for justice.
On 9 June 2025, authorities made a chilling discovery—burned and dismembered human remains, with missing body parts, were found. It is feared these could belong to Sibongile. Though official DNA confirmation is still pending, the body was found not far from where she was last seen. Disturbingly, additional body parts were reportedly discovered in a room she shared with her boyfriend.
“She had dreams, a future, a heart full of love,” said her heartbroken sister. “She didn’t deserve this kind of ending. No one does.”
On Thursday, 5 June, the Hadebe family reached out to Missing Person South Africa, asking us to help spread the word about Sibongile’s disappearance. We immediately took action and published the missing person alert across our platforms.
Shortly after, the family contacted us again with this heartfelt message:
“Hey, please help us spread the word. A body was found — yazi, through your post 🙏🏼 someone called. The head had a nose ring, and it was found near where she lived.”
This moment brought both shock and a painful step closer to answers. While the discovery has yet to be officially confirmed through DNA, it highlights the vital role public awareness plays in missing person cases. It also reminds us that every share, every repost, and every alert matters.
Let us continue to be the voice for those who can no longer speak.
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Timeline of Events: From Hope to Heartbreak
- 18–19 May 2025: Sibongile Hadebe is last seen in Mamelodi.
- Early June: Family grows increasingly worried and files a missing person report.
- 9 June 2025: Burned and dismembered remains are discovered by police.
- Mid-June: Police confirm that parts found in the couple’s shared residence raise suspicion.
- Present: Awaiting DNA and forensic results; no arrests yet.
Community in Shock: “We Are Tired of Living in Fear”
The Greater Tshwane Region Youth League released a public statement condemning the violence and expressing support for the Hadebe family.
“Sibongile’s case is not an isolated one,” said Thabang Motsoeneng, a community activist. “Too many women are going missing. Too many are not coming back. We are tired of living in fear.”
The Quiet Epidemic: Missing Women and Gender-Based Violence in SA
According to Missing Children South Africa, a child goes missing every five hours in the country. For adult women, gender-based violence often intersects with disappearances. South Africa continues to face a gender-based violence (GBV) crisis, with women frequently going unheard until tragedy strikes.
Sibongile’s story echoes many others—young, vibrant women disappearing under suspicious circumstances, often with their partners the last known contact. Authorities confirm that the boyfriend is under growing suspicion, but no formal charges have been filed yet.
More Than Just a Name: Remembering Sibongile
Sibongile was described by friends and family as light-hearted, bubbly, and kind-spirited. She was light-skinned, with a small frame, and wore a nose ring. She had tattoos on her foot and wrist, and her brown eyes reflected warmth. She weighed about 40–45 kg and carried herself with confidence and grace.
“She was always smiling, always helping others. I just can’t believe this happened,” said Noxolo, a close friend.
What Can We Learn From This?
This case reminds us all of the urgent need for community vigilance, and to never underestimate the early signs of distress in relationships. If something feels off—check in. Listen. Believe people when they say they’re afraid.
✅ Safety Tips You Can Use Today:
- Always let someone know where you’re going, especially if meeting someone alone.
- Set up safety check-ins with friends or family, especially if living with a partner.
- Use emergency location-sharing apps like Life360 or WhatsApp live location.
- Teach children and teens to speak up if they feel unsafe or uncomfortable.
- Report all missing person cases immediately. There is no “waiting period” in South Africa.
Let’s Talk: What More Can We Do as a Community?
- Do you feel safe in your community?
- What changes do you want to see from law enforcement or local leaders?
- How do we, as a society, better protect women from becoming statistics?
🗣️ Share your thoughts in the comments. Let’s start a conversation that leads to change.
💔 Call to Action: Help Us Honour Sibongile’s Memory
We urge the public to remain alert, report suspicious behavior, and most importantly, never ignore a missing person report. One share could be the reason a life is saved or justice is served.
📢 Please share this story widely. Stay vigilant. Stand together.
📌 Use this official link to report a missing person
🕯️ May Sibongile Hadebe’s soul rest in peace. And may her story inspire justice—not only for her, but for countless others like her.
Missing Person South Africa
Article by Zinhle Cele
📧 Email: zinhle.cela@missingpersonsa.co.za
📱 WhatsApp to report a case
🔗 Report a missing person
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