Lathitha Mtolo, 7, from Marikana location in Kokstad. She has been missing since February 26
Image: Facebook
Missing seven-year-old Lathitha Mtolo has been described as a “bubbly and smart” young girl who would not wander away from her home in Marikana location in Kokstad with a stranger.
Lathitha has been missing since February 26 and her disappearance has led to an uproar in the community with residents engaging in vigilante acts amid the ongoing search. At least homes were burnt last week as the community searched for suspects.
A family friend who spoke to The Mercury said Lathitha had been playing with other children after returning from school on the day of her disappearance.
“Around 4pm, she told her friends she was going home to eat and would be back. She did go home and she did eat. After eating, she went out again to play, and that is when she disappeared,” the friend said.
The alarm was raised between 5pm and 6pm that evening when the young girl failed to return home, sparking an immediate search by relatives and neighbours.
The friend said the little girl's absence has left a visible void in the household.
“She’s the child whose presence you feel; you can tell when she’s not in the room. She is very smart and wouldn't just leave with someone she doesn’t know. That is why this is so shocking to us,” the family friend added.
She added that Lathitha’s mother is reportedly struggling to cope with the trauma.
"The family is in a lot of pain. Her mother is not eating and is not coping at all. Other family members are trying to be strong, but everyone is very worried," the friend said.
The SAPS in Kokstad is appealing to anyone with information regarding Lathitha’s whereabouts to come forward as a possible kidnapping is investigated.
Members of the public who may have seen her or have any details that could assist the investigation are urged to contact their nearest police station immediately.
Alternatively, information can be shared via the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or anonymously through the MySAPS App.
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