Criminologist explains key causes of loved ones disappearing
Bianca van Aswegen from Missing Children South Africa shares vital advice on how to properly report missing persons and warns that spreading false information online can delay search efforts and harm investigations.
Few situations are more distressing than when a loved one disappears without a trace. In such moments, knowing what steps to take – and what to avoid – can make all the difference.
The Krugersdorp News spoke to criminologist and national co-ordinator at Missing Children South Africa (MCSA), Bianca van Aswegen, to shed light on what happens when someone goes missing, and how the public can respond responsibly and effectively.
Van Aswegen explained that MCSA is a national organisation that works closely with the police on all missing persons cases, including those involving adults.
“We have been doing this since 2007 and are the biggest organisation in the country that does this work,” she said.
Is there a waiting period to report someone missing?
One of the most common misconceptions is that you must wait 24 hours before reporting a missing person. Van Aswegen was clear:
“There is no waiting period to report a missing person. The sooner the case is reported, the sooner action can be taken. If you find yourself in a situation where someone is missing, report it to us or your closest police station as soon as possible.”
When opening a case, it is important to provide a clear, recent photo of the missing person, along with relevant details such as their full name, age, clothing worn at the time of disappearance, and where they were last seen.
The risks of misinformation on social media
While social media can be a useful tool in spreading awareness, Van Aswegen warned about the dangers of sharing incorrect or unofficial information.
“People should please refrain from spreading misinformation on social media, as this can affect the investigation and create a wild goose chase.”
She added that families sometimes create and circulate their own flyers containing personal contact details, which can lead to extortion attempts.
“This is why we make our official flyers, with the correct information on them, to ensure the families of the missing persons are not exploited with their details.”
What to do if you locate a missing person
If you find someone who has been reported missing, Van Aswegen advised reporting it immediately to your nearest police station or MCSA.
“The person must get the correct help afterwards, depending on the circumstances. For example, when there was a crime involved, a further investigation will be done by the police.”
How are missing persons located?
Each case is unique, Van Aswegen said, and the approach depends heavily on the situation.
“There are numerous factors, including how fast the case was reported and how quickly action can be taken to assemble a search party. If the case has been reported a while after, it can be very difficult to put together an immediate search party, as the missing person can be far away and even out of the country.”
Why do people go missing?
For adults, the reasons vary widely. Van Aswegen cited voluntary disappearances, unidentified accident victims, and crime, including kidnappings, as the most common causes.
When it comes to children, the reasons are more complex.
“Some of them are exposed to abuse at home and then run away. Abductions and human trafficking are common reasons for missing children.”
She added that for long-term missing persons – those who have been gone for decades – the reasons are often unknown. However, hope remains.
“If we have not found a body, we still have hope of finding them.”
How to reduce the risk of a child going missing
Prevention begins at home. Van Aswegen stressed the importance of supervision and accountability.
“Know where they are and with whom. They should always be under parental supervision. Parents cannot blame the authorities if their children go missing. It is their responsibility to protect their children. The accountability of parents should be considered if the parents had the responsibility to take care of their children.”
For more information or assistance, contact Missing Children South Africa on their emergency line at 072 647 7464, or visit www.missingchildren.org.za.
