By Staff Reporter
GIYANI — A mother from Khakhala Village outside Giyani has shared a painful Christmas message dedicated to her young son, who has been missing for more than a year and a half.
Eight-year-old Rifumo Chabalala was last seen on 3 June 2024 after leaving his home in Khakhala Village, under the Muyexe policing area, to play soccer with friends at a nearby local field. Since then, his whereabouts have remained unknown.
As families across the country gathered to celebrate Christmas, Rifumo’s mother, Hahani Conny, took to social media to express her heartbreak and longing for her only son. In her emotional message, she wrote: “Happy Christmas Day my only son siku arivi kahle kwalomu inga tumbetiwa kona,” words reflecting deep pain and unanswered hope.
Rifumo, a Grade 2 learner at Khakhala Primary School, disappeared while playing with other children. Despite extensive search efforts by police, relatives, and community members in surrounding villages and nearby bushes, no significant leads have been found.
It has now been one year and six months since Rifumo went missing, with his family continuing to appeal for help and refusing to give up hope of finding him.
Police are urging anyone with information that could assist in locating Rifumo Chabalala to contact the nearest police station.
Information can also be shared with the investigating officer, Warrant Officer Tinyiko Mabasa, on 067 565 0240, or via the Crime Stop number 08600 10111, or through the My SAPS App.
