Welkom Woman Missing After Trip to the Shop — What Happened to Anuschka Saunders?

What began as a normal Tuesday afternoon in Welkom has left a family heartbroken and a community searching for answers.
32-year-old Anuschka Janine Saunders was last seen on Tuesday, 27 May 2025, after she told a friend she was stepping out to the shop. That was the last time anyone saw her.

According to police, Anuschka left around 17:20, promising to be back shortly. When she didn’t return, her loved ones grew worried. By nightfall, their calls went unanswered. The following day, a missing person’s file was opened at the Welkom Police Station.

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Family and Friends Plead for Help to Find Missing Welkom Woman

Family members say the waiting has been unbearable.

“We still hope she’ll walk in any minute,” said a relative, her voice heavy with emotion. “She wouldn’t just disappear like that. It’s not in her nature.”

Friends have described Anuschka as kind, quiet, and dependable — someone who never stayed out without letting others know where she was. Her sudden disappearance has left those closest to her confused and frightened.

“Anuschka’s the type of person who always checks in,” said a friend. “We just need to know she’s safe.”

Police Investigation: Search Continues for Missing Woman in Welkom, Free State

D/Sergeant Stanley Manake of the Welkom Detective Services confirmed that all possible leads are being followed.

“A missing person’s file was registered, and investigations are continuing,” he said. “We urge anyone who may have seen or heard from Anuschka since the evening of 27 May to contact us immediately.”

Despite extensive search efforts, including visits to local hospitals and community outreach, there has been no confirmed sighting.

Description and Identifying Details of Anuschka Janine Saunders

Anuschka is described as:

• Approximately 1.6 metres tall
• Average build
• Brown eyes
• Medium-length brown hair

She was last seen wearing casual clothing, though the exact outfit was not confirmed.

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Growing Concern Over Safety of Women in South Africa

Her disappearance has also renewed concern over women’s safety in South Africa. Many in the Welkom community have voiced fears about how quickly ordinary moments can turn dangerous.

Experts say that quick public response and widespread awareness are crucial in the first days of a disappearance. Sharing verified information and avoiding rumours can make all the difference in bringing someone home safely.

Have you seen Anuschka Janine Saunders?

Anyone with information is urged to contact D/Sergeant Stanley Manake at 065 853 0130 or report anonymously to the nearest police station.

Even a small detail — a sighting, a vehicle, or a memory of that evening — could help investigators trace her steps.

Join the Search — Missing Person South Africa Calls for Public Support

At Missing Persons South Africa, every story matters. Sharing these alerts helps families feel less alone and often leads to real breakthroughs. Please share this story, comment if you have updates, and follow our page for verified information and community support.

Together, we can help bring Anuschka Janine Saunders home.