Missing persons expert offers unique insights
Renegades Search and Rescue search co-ordinator offers her unique insights into the processes and objectives of the organisation.
SEARCH and Rescue expert, Dawn Gounden, has worked in the tumultuous field for nearly 15 years, drawing experience from mentors in the field, working alongside high-ranking police members, and receiving training from international anti-human trafficking non-profit organisation, A21.
Also read: KwaMakhutha man goes missing after ‘altercation’ with taxi drivers
Gounden is the head search co-ordinator of Renegades Search and Rescue, a non-profit organisation that works to assist families find missing persons, assists the police in dealing with human trafficking, wanted suspects and natural disaster management, as well as finding next of kin for unidentified human remains.
“My journey in the field of missing persons began under the mentorship of Steven King, from SA Community Crime Watch (SACCW). Initially, we operated in teams focused on specific cases of reported missing individuals. Due to my consistent dedication and interest, I was given the opportunity to work independently, which led to several successful outcomes. Recognising my potential, Mike Venter from SACCW encouraged me to expand my efforts, resulting in the formation of a team in Gauteng. This marked the inception of Renegades in 2017. I subsequently recruited additional members from KZN and continued to build a network, ultimately establishing teams across major provinces. While working in the field, I have gained priceless knowledge as it cannot be put into words or a manual – there is no manual for such cases,” said Gounden.
She explained that a key strategy in Renegades’ operations is the dissemination of information regarding missing persons, in order to encourage public involvement in providing leads. Furthermore, social media and local media outlets have aided their work.
Also read: How to report a missing person
“Technology plays a crucial role, particularly in cases involving vehicles, where automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras have successfully aided in locating many individuals. Our approach is informed not only by experience but also by training and collaboration with investigative officers who provide valuable insights. We have thus far brought closure to many families, reuniting loved ones with the lost. Every day in South Africa, individuals go missing. One particularly challenging case was the search for a woman who drowned in Amanzimtoti in 2023 – it felt as if I was searching for a needle in a haystack,” she said.
She advises families to remain open-minded and to physically check hospitals, state mortuaries and prison services, depending on the circumstances surrounding the disappearance.
She emphasises, “There is no waiting period to report a missing person. You are required to proceed to the nearest police station together with a clear printed photograph free from any photo editing or filter as this often hinders the search.”
Renegades aim to educate rural areas on how to deal with matters pertaining to missing persons, how to safeguard vulnerable groups, and how to be self-sufficient in a disaster.
Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom at 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.
