UPDATE: Norwood man, missing since October 3, has been found safe in Greenstone
After more than two weeks of worry, relief has been given to the family of William 'Gerald' Vries, as the 58-year-old Norwood man, who has an intellectual disability, was found safe in Greenstone on Monday afternoon.
After more than two weeks of uncertainty, the family of William Benjamin ‘Gerald’ Vries is relieved to have him home safe. The 58-year-old Norwood resident, who has an intellectual disability, was found in Greenstone on October 21, at around 15:00.
Vries was reported missing earlier this month after last being seen in Norwood on October 3. His disappearance prompted a widespread community search, with residents, organisations, and online groups sharing his missing persons flyer in hopes of finding him.
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His sister, Debbie Marks, expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who assisted in bringing her brother home. “I would like to thank everyone that was helping me to locate my brother, including VCSI. They were of great help because, immediately after I posted and shared his flyers, I got a response of his whereabouts. So, I thank you all and God bless.”
Mahmood Cassim, from the Vulnerable Citizens Support Initiative (VCSI), confirmed that Vries was found. “We can confirm that Mr William ‘Gerald’ Vries has been found safe and in good health. Thank you to all those involved in locating him. Your efforts are appreciated.”
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Cassim also extended thanks to the Norwood and Edenvale SAPS, private security companies, Community Policing Forums, and members of the public for their collective efforts in locating Vries.
The family has described his safe return as a blessing, and thanked everyone who shared information and offered support throughout the search.
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