A 6-year-old child who was reported missing in Strand on Saturday was found with an adult male ‘under highly concerning circumstances’, prompting an ongoing police investigation, reports Cape {town} Etc.
According to a statement by Strand Patrol, its members responded to a report of a missing child who had last been seen swimming.
‘NSRI was contacted, and our members immediately assisted in the search,’ the organisation said.
‘During the search, the child was found with an adult male under highly concerning circumstances. When confronted, the suspect ran off into nearby bushes. Despite an extensive two-hour search, he was not found,’ Strand Patrol added.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has since taken over the investigation, while the child and her mother are receiving the necessary support.
The patrol group described the incident as a ‘serious warning’ to all parents and caregivers, urging the public to always keep children within sight and to remain alert in public spaces.
‘This incident serves as a serious warning to all parents and caregivers: always keep your children within sight and do not assume they are safe in places,’ the statement continued.
Strand Patrol also reminded residents to take general safety precautions, including not leaving valuables in cars and switching off Bluetooth when parked.
‘Please stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately to SAPS or Strand Patrol,’ it said.
Police investigations into the incident are ongoing.
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Picture: @KC Gericke / Facebook
