The disappearance of Thato Papole, a 17-year-old boy from Winterveldt, has plunged his family, friends, and the local community into deep distress. Thato, last seen on the evening of Wednesday, 12 February 2025, between 20:00 and 21:00, has been missing for over a week, raising widespread concern for his safety.
Thato was last seen with a Nigerian man named Austin, prompting his family to initiate a search with the support of the Community Policing Forum (CPF). Despite their best efforts, they have been unable to locate him. Tshepang Papole, Thato’s sister, stated, “We’ve been searching for Thato everywhere we can, but we still haven’t found him. It’s heartbreaking to think of him being out there alone.”
On Monday, 17 February 2025, the family, along with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and local community members, resumed their search for Thato. They were joined by Specialised Security Services, which is actively assisting in the effort. Unfortunately, they have yet to find any trace of him. Disturbingly, the family has received unverified information suggesting that Thato may be held captive in Carolina, Mpumalanga. Tshepang conveyed the emotional toll this uncertainty has taken on the family, saying, “All we want is to know that Thato is safe. We are desperate for any information that will bring him home.”
Thato is described as a 17-year-old male with a light complexion and an athletic build, standing between 1.75 and 1.8 meters tall. He has a distinct whitish birthmark on one arm. At the time of his disappearance, he was wearing a white vest, black socks, and striped trousers with black and brown patterns.
The case has been reported to the Loate Police Station in Winterveldt, and investigators are diligently following all leads. Public support is crucial in locating Thato. Tshepang urges, “Please, let’s focus on finding him and bringing him home safely.”
Specialised Security Services is asking anyone with information about Thato’s whereabouts to contact Ms. Odette Van Staden, a Specialised Investigator, at +27 64 700 3023 or via email at odettevs@mikebolhuis.co.za. You can also reach out to the Investigative Officer at Loate Police Station at +27 71 111 8870.
As the search continues, every minute counts. The Papole family remains hopeful that community support will help bring their loved one home. If you have any information, please come forward to assist in reuniting Thato with his family.
For inquiries, please contact:
Ms. Odette Van Staden
Specialised Investigator
+27 64 700 3023
odettevs@mikebolhuis.co.za
Loate Police Station Investigative Officer
+27 71 111 8870
