As January draws to a close, a Newcastle family remains desperate for answers following the disappearance of a mentally disabled man in the Newcastle Central Business District (CBD).
While law enforcement agencies continue an extensive search, the Newcastle Community Policing Forum (CPF) has issued a renewed appeal to residents, stressing that even the smallest piece of information could be decisive in locating him.
According to Newcastle CPF deputy chairperson Belinda Ellor, the man was last seen on Allen Street on 7 November 2025, directly opposite the Newcastle Police Station.
Due to his mental disability, his failure to return home that evening raised immediate concern, prompting the opening of a missing person’s report.
Despite sustained search efforts by Newcastle SAPS over the past two months, he remains unaccounted for, and the CPF is urging community members to come forward to assist authorities and help bring much-needed clarity to his family.
While it is unclear what the man was wearing at the time of his disappearance, Ellor stressed that anyone with information should come forward immediately:
- Newcastle SAPS: 079 500 1119
- Investigating Officer – Warrant Officer Karen Landman (Newcastle SAPS): 079 500 0526
- Newcastle CPF – Belinda Ellor: 071 404 3575
As the Newcastle SAPS and Newcastle CPF continue their search for the missing man, Ellor confirmed that authorities are also investigating the whereabouts of the parents and family members of the young child who was abandoned in the Newcastle CBD in November 2025.
While these efforts are ongoing, it should be noted that, as reported by Newcastillian News on 13 January 2026, the little boy, known as Nkosi, was found wandering along Voortrekker Street, near Habiba Butchery.
To read more, click here
He is estimated to be between four and five years of age, and despite authorities’ persistent efforts, no one has come forward to claim him, nor has any missing child report been filed, which further complicates the search for his family and underscores the urgency of community involvement.
Now residing in a place of safety, Nkosi continues to wait for his family.
Moreover, Ellor is urging anyone with information regarding the child’s family to step forward promptly, so that he can be reunited with his loved ones without further delay.
- Investigating Officer, Constable Archart (SAPS FCS Unit): 068 828 9385
- Newcastle SAPS: 079 500 1119
- Newcastle CPF – Belinda Ellor: 071 404 3575
With the public being called upon for assistance, Ellor stated, “As the Deputy of the Community Policing Forum (CPF) in Newcastle, I work closely with families and authorities in cases involving missing persons and abandoned children. These situations are deeply distressing and affect our entire community. I urge residents to remain vigilant, look out for one another, and report any information—no matter how small—that may assist in reuniting families and ensuring the safety of our most vulnerable. Community awareness and cooperation are vital in helping us respond quickly and effectively.”
Anyone with information on the two matters is encouraged to come forward and contact the relevant authorities.
Leave your thoughts below and do not forget to read, Newcastle Home Affairs Operating from Mobile Units After Storm Damage, if you missed it.
2 Responses
My thoughts and prayers are with both these families it must be so distressing for their loved ones
Me thinks he is employed at the Local Municipality – I was told by a friend.