A man believed to be missing after travelling from Vryburg to Stella posted an alarming WhatsApp status in the early hours of Monday morning, 12 January 2026, which has since become the last known communication from him.

In the message, the man alleged that he had been kidnapped while hitchhiking, saying he was taken to an unknown location and was being held in a “dark room”. He further claimed his belongings were taken, but that he managed to hide his phone and asked people who know him to share the message urgently. The Vryburg Independent Post (The VIP) Team has engaged members of the community, who have identified this man as Velile “Svela” Maleke, a local businessman, well known in the hospitality sector for his catering skills and services. 

A local community leader, who has been engaging with people close to Maleke, said they are following up on leads linked to the message and are also encouraging the family to open an official missing person case so that the matter can be formally investigated.

At this stage, it is unclear where the man was last seen, or whether police have been notified. The situation remains developing.

Community members who may have information about the man’s whereabouts are urged to report it to the nearest police station immediately, and not to circulate unverified claims that could compromise efforts to locate him.

-The VIP Team