Family members in Aliwal North have confirmed that 18-year-old Bonolo Rabe, who vanished from her home on 6 September, has been found dead after a ten-day search that involved police and community volunteers.
The disappearance prompted a missing-persons alert circulated by the SAPS and the local community policing forum. The notice said Rabe was last seen at about 4:00pm on 6 September at her residence. Her relatives appealed to anyone with information to come forward during the days that followed.
In a statement issued on the family’s behalf on Wednesday, Rabe’s representative, Ntobeko Langa Rabe, confirmed the death and asked the public and media to allow detectives to carry out their work without interference.
“SiyiFamily kaBonolo, we sincerely thank the social media community, the community at large, the SAPS, churches and all individuals and organisations who assisted in the search and supported us during this difficult time,” the family said.
The family also requested privacy as they grieve, saying their community’s support had been important during the search. They declined to provide further details about the circumstances or location of the discovery, and urged the public to respect the ongoing police enquiries.
Police investigation ongoing; details withheld
The SAPS has not yet released particulars about where Rabe’s body was found or the cause of death. Detectives, the statement said, are continuing with investigative procedures and the family asked for space while these processes unfold.
Aliwal North residents and community organisations took part in searches earlier this month after the teen’s disappearance was reported. Public involvement ranged from grassroots search parties to amplifying the missing-person notice on social media, according to the family’s message of thanks.
Local policing structures often encourage rapid community reporting and co‑operation in missing-person cases, and the family’s public appeal reflected that practice. In this instance, the involvement of multiple community actors drew wide attention and assistance, the statement noted.
Practical information for the public
If you have any information that could assist the investigation, contact the SAPS at your nearest station or use the national Crime Stop number. Officials routinely ask witnesses to preserve any potential evidence and to avoid spreading unverified details on social media so as not to hamper enquiries.
- When to contact police: if you saw Bonolo on or after 6 September, or if you have knowledge of people she was in contact with.
- How to pass information: approach your nearest SAPS station, call Crime Stop, or provide anonymous tips if safety is a concern.
- Support for families: community policing forums and local churches remain key sources of emotional and practical support at this stage.
At present the case remains under investigation and the SAPS is responsible for informing next of kin of further developments. The family’s plea for restraint from speculation is consistent with police practice when enquiries are active and evidence is being collected.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Age | 18 |
| Last seen | 6 September at about 4:00pm |
| Location | Aliwal North |
| Search duration | 10 days |
This case is a reminder of the pressures families face when loved ones go missing and the role communities play in searches. Authorities say members of the public should continue to assist investigators with any credible leads, while media and social networks should avoid publishing details that could jeopardise inquiries.
Further updates will be made available by the SAPS as the investigation progresses and when the family and police are ready to release more information.
