According to police, the search for the German tourist, Nick Frischke who vanished in Cape Town more than two weeks ago has not been abandoned. However, the search teams have been temporarily withdrawn.
Also read: Hout Bay residents hold candlelight vigil for missing German tourist
Frischke, disappeared in the Karbonkelberg and Hout Bay region on 15 February 2023, after he arrived in the city on 6 February 2023, for a two-week holiday.
During a hiking excursion, the 22-year-old Frischke was robbed. The suspects, Igshaan Fisher, Jason Abrahams, Vanroy Petersen, Carlo Guenantin, and Melvin Guenantin, were apprehended with the victim’s belongings and have been charged with aggravated robbery. The suspects stated that they robbed the victim on 15 February and claimed that he fled, but he has not been seen since.
Until Friday, 3 March 2023, search teams have been scouring the mountainous terrain for any sign of the missing individual.
Craig Wylie, the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) director at Western Cape Government Health and Wellness, confirmed that EMS had been involved in the initial search. However, in accordance with protocol, EMS handed over the responsibility to the South African Police Service (SAPS) when the search became a missing persons case after the initial search period.
An extensive search of the area which involved the Drone Unit had been done, up until Friday, 3 March 2023.
The Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) team has dedicated hundreds of man-hours to the search for Frischke, with its members sacrificing days of their time to aid in the operation.
As reported by News24 – According to David Nel, a spokesperson for WSAR, the team has been stood down by SAPS while awaiting new information.
“As soon as we are requested [to continue the search] we will do so. The investigation is ongoing and we will continue to assist and contribute where needed,” Nel said.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson, Colonel André Traut, stated that search teams have been withdrawn until new information is brought to light.
Colonel André Traut said, “The search has not been called off entirely. Official search teams have been withdrawn from the mountain after the entire area was scouted, but as new information comes to light, SAPS members assisted by other role players are resuming searches.
“The disappearance of Nick Frischke is still under investigation, and he is still regarded as missing.
“Five suspects who were arrested on a robbery charge have made their court appearance last week in Wynberg after some of Frischke’s belongings were found in their possession. They are due back in court this week.”
On Saturday, 4 March 2023, members of the Hout Bay community continued their search for Frischke independently.
Andre van Schalkwyk, a community member and mountaineer, reported that he and approximately 30 other civilians searched for Frischke in the Hangberg village area and Sentinel surroundings, where he was last spotted. They conducted the search in an unofficial capacity.
Also read:
Suspect admits to stabbing missing German tourist as five appear in court
Picture: Tom Frischke / Facebook