UPDATE: Missing child – Hunt for missing child intensifies

BREAKING NEWS: The vehicle, which has been missing since yesterday afternoon, was allegedly spotted last night at Elandslaagte, near Ladysmith in KwaZulu Natal.

A resident reported he had spoken with the driver, and confirmed his identity after a picture of the suspect was sent to him. He also confirmed a second person in the vehicle, however he could not confirm the age of this person.

The suspect allegedly asked the resident for 50 liters of diesel, as he was travelling to his farm in Harrismith. The resident then told him to rather go to the police station to ask for assistance.

The resident further reported the exact characteristics of the vehicle, unprompted, to unofficial sources.

Outrage, desperation and hope has flooded the hearts of Newcastle residents, following the alleged kidnapping of 12-year-old Marcel Blandin de Chalain.

Social media exploded with allegations and possible sightings, amid arguments with the parents of the child, accusing them of gross negligence.

According to sources within the town camera room, the vehicle was spotted driving up Victoria Road at approximately 9.30pm last night. No sightings, official or unofficial, have been reported since. Police officials on patrol were making use of social media sites to attend scenes where the vehicle was reportedly last seen.

“No case was opened, as the mother was too traumatised by the disappearance of her son,” said Captain Shooz Magudulela, police spokesperson. When provided with a case number received from the parents, he stated he would only be able to give official comment after a morning meeting.

Residents have now begun forming search parties, to comb the town, particularly areas less frequented.

A police source confirmed the docket had been officially opened as a missing person. Journalists and police officers will soon be on the ground searching an area the child was allegedly seen walking with the suspect, at approximately 3pm yesterday afternoon.

Marcel was last seen with the suspect, known as Johan de Beer, leaving his home in a white Ford Ranger light duty vehicle, also at approximately 3pm. Marcel has dark hair, blue eyes and answers to the nickname ‘Bollie’.

Any residents with information are urged to contact Captain Flip Claassen on 079 5000 453, who has confirmed the situation is being treated as a missing persons case henceforth.

Missing Children South Africa are also now involved, and are awaiting information to officially launch a nation wide search campaign.

Stay tuned for further updates, stories and information.

Click this link for past updates.