Senior investigator at Pascoe Investigations Pty Ltd and MISSING persons in SA Wendy Pascoe said holiday periods could bring a different type of worry and heartache – with the possibility of a loved one going missing.
“With this in mind, it is important to know what to do if a loved one goes missing,” she said.
Pascoe said when you suspect that a loved one is missing or their whereabouts are unknown, call the police.
“There’s no waiting period to report a missing person,” she said.
She said it’s crucial to act quickly because the first few hours after a person goes missing are critical.
“The longer someone is missing, the harder it becomes to find them. By involving the authorities right away, you increase the chances of your loved one being located and returning home safely,” Pasco said.
She advised families to keep a recent photo of their loved one and make sure to have their contact information up to date.
“It’s also a good idea to have a plan in place with family and friends for what to do if someone goes missing during a holiday gathering or event.
“Knowing what steps to take and staying vigilant, can help ensure the safety and well-being of our loved ones.”
“People should remember to act quickly, gather information, reach out for support, and never lose hope.”
How to report a missing person:
If someone close to you is missing, you should report them to the police as soon as possible. You do not need to wait 24 hours.
Police said when a person goes missing, it is of the utmost importance for the SAPS to fulfil their mandate to serve and protect the citizens of South Africa.
You can assist police when reporting a missing person by following these steps:
• There is no waiting period to report a person missing.
• Report a missing person at your nearest police station immediately.
• Produce a recent photograph of the missing person, if possible.
• Give a complete description of the missing person’s last whereabouts, clothes they were wearing, as well as any information that can assist the investigating officer.
• Complete and sign a SAPS 55(A) form. This form safeguards the SAPS from hoax reports and indemnifies the SAPS for distributing the photograph and information of the missing person.
• Obtain the investigating officer’s contact details, and send any additional information that might become available.
Pascoe offered some crucial steps to take if you suspect your loved one is missing:
Gather Information
• When speaking with the authorities, it’s important to provide them with as much information as possible about your missing loved one.
• This can include details such as their full name, age, physical description, last known location, and any distinctive features or items they may have had with them.
• Additionally, try to gather any relevant documents or photos that may help in the search, such as recent photos of your loved one or their medical records if they have any pre-existing conditions.
Reach Out to Friends and Family
In addition to contacting the authorities, it’s important to reach out to friends and family members to inform them of the situation.
They may have information or insights that could be helpful in the search. It’s also a good idea to ask them to spread the word and share any information on social media.
The more people who are aware of your loved one’s disappearance, the greater the chances of someone recognising them and providing valuable information.
Utilise Online Resources
In today’s digital age, there are numerous online resources available to help in missing person cases. For instance, websites like Missing In SA.
• Have databases where you can submit information about your loved one and their case.
• Social media platforms can also be powerful tools for spreading the word about a missing person.
Don’t Give Up Hope
The days and weeks after a loved one goes missing can be emotionally draining and overwhelming. It’s important to stay strong and not lose hope during this difficult time.
Remember that many missing person cases have happy endings, with loved ones being found safe and returned home.
Continue to spread the word, stay in touch with authorities, and have faith that your loved one will be found.
Seek Support
Dealing with the disappearance of a loved one can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being.
It’s important to take care of yourself during this time by seeking support from friends, family, or professional counselling if needed.
Many organisations also offer support groups for families of missing persons, providing a safe space to share experiences and find comfort in others who are going through similar situations.
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