Missing children from informal settlements ‘often overlooked’: Abahlali raises concerns
Premier Thami Ntuli says the search for little Lathitha Mtolo has been emotionally devastating for her family.
Abahlali baseMjondolo feels that children from informal settlements who go missing are often overlooked by authorities.
The shack dwellers' movement has raised concerns as the search for seven-year-old Lathitha Mtolo from Kokstad continues.
The child was last seen playing with friends in the Marikana township last month.
Police intensify search for little Lathitha Mtolo
A 33-year-old man, believed to match the description of the person Lathitha was last seen with, was allegedly assaulted by community members after her disappearance.
He was then questioned by police and later released due to insufficient evidence.
Premier Thami Ntuli, who visited the family on Saturday, said the ordeal has been emotionally devastating.
Ntuli received an update on Lathitha’s case from Kokstad police who assured him that they would intensify their investigation into the little girl's disappearance.
"I was really touched when I heard about a missing girl and another one who had been missing since December. I went to the police station to understand the extent of the investigation.
"I'm quite happy with the progress because a mother and a father were arrested for the December case. Unfortunately, for this recent one, police are still continuing with the investigation, and I felt it was also quite very important to go and visit the family to comfort them."
Community volunteers aren’t giving up
Ntuli praised the dedication and sacrifices of members of voluntary community safety structures, highlighting their ongoing commitment to building safer communities free from crime.
He engaged with various crime prevention structures at the Riverview Community Hall.
"The provincial government applauds your spirit of volunteerism. We urge you to continue working within the prescription of the law. Your main responsibility is to ensure that our communities are and feel safe and protected."
Abahlali's Thapelo Mohapi says it's unfortunate that it took the premier visiting the area to prompt meaningful action from authorities.
“The community had to result into violence. And that is because when there is no law enforcement and lack of leadership and no direction, sometimes people's anger may lead into some of those things.
“We are not condoning the act by the community, but we are saying therefore, that could have been prevented if people in the informal settlement and in townships are given the same service when it comes to their safety and security. So, it counts in society, who you are in order for the police to react.”
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