AS MORE young children are being reported missing by their loved ones, a search-and-rescue organisation is appealing for more care and supervision to be given to them.
Also read: Body of a child found in Isipingo
This comes after two young children were reported missing while at their homes over the past two months. Isiphile Mnyangula (2), of Umgababa, was last seen on July 2 while playing with her three-year-old cousin in a sandpit in her yard. The three-year-old could not explain who took Isipihile.
Six-year-old Zekhethelo Luphalule vanished from her Malukazi home near Isipingo on June 20. Her mother had left her home alone during the day and gone to work. On July 8, a body of an unknown African child was found in Lotus Park, Isipingo. Zekhethelo’s mother inspected the body and confirmed it was not that of her missing daughter.
Dawn Gounden of Renegades Search and Rescue said leaving children unsupervised can pose a risk to their safety and well-being.
“Young children are naturally curious and impulsive, which can lead them to engage in risky behaviours when left unsupervised. Without a responsible adult present to guide and protect them, children may not be able to make safe decisions. This can result in accidents, injuries or even harm from strangers who may take advantage of their vulnerability,” said Gounden.
She added that unsupervised children may be more susceptible to emotional and psychological harm.
Also read: Help find missing Isipingo Hills man
“Without a caregiver nearby to provide support and reassurance, children may experience feelings of fear, anxiety and loneliness. These negative emotions can have long-term effects on their mental health and development. Additionally, unsupervised children are at a higher risk of encountering dangerous situations such as bullying, abuse or exploitation,” she said.
Anyone who can provide information that may lead to the missing children being found or information about the body that was found in Lotus Park can call Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or Dawn on 074 712 5855.
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