August 22, 2023*

In a heart-wrenching appeal to the community, the Pudimoe police are seeking assistance in locating 2-year-old Thato Ralesite, who went missing from her residence at Myra Village near Pudimoe. The frantic search has continued since her disappearance on Saturday, August 19, 2023, with local law enforcement and community members joining forces in the effort to find her.

Thato was last seen playing in the yard of her Aunt’s house around 5:00 PM on the mentioned Saturday. She was dressed in a red tracksuit top, cream trousers, and pink tekkies at the time of her disappearance. The details surrounding her sudden disappearance have left her family, the community, and authorities deeply concerned.

The Pudimoe police have been actively involved in the search, and the investigation has included a collaborative effort from both law enforcement and community members. Despite these efforts, there have been no significant leads to her whereabouts thus far. Today, the search enters a new phase with the addition of K9 and Mounted Units to the search party, intensifying the collective efforts to locate the missing child.

Capt. Obakeng Phirichwane, the Investigating Officer from the Pudimoe Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS), has urged anyone with information regarding Thato’s whereabouts to come forward. “We are committed to bringing Thato home safely,” he emphasized, “and every piece of information, no matter how small, could be vital in helping us achieve that.”

The news of Thato’s disappearance has sparked a strong response from the community, with an outpouring of concern and support for the family during this distressing time. The community’s unity in times of crisis is a testament to their shared commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of their members.

Authorities have made it clear that any information, regardless of its nature, can be crucial in the ongoing search. Individuals who have any information about Thato’s whereabouts are urged to contact Capt. Obakeng Phirichwane at 060 967 3947 or visit their nearest police station. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or through the MySAPS App on smartphones.

As the search for Thato Ralesite intensifies, the community’s hope and determination to bring her home safely remain steadfast. The Vryburg Independent Post extends its thoughts and support to the family during this challenging time, and we join the community in urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in reuniting Thato with her loved ones.

-The VIP Team

-SAPS NW