VANDERBIJLPARK – The parents of the late Thomas Sithole (17) remain steadfast in their search for the truth surrounding their son’s untimely death.

Alice and Steve Sithole appeared in the Sasolburg Magistrate’s Court on September 29 seeking clarity, but the court postponed the inquest to October 29.

Unlike a criminal trial, an inquest is not a trial between two parties, and its primary goal is not to convict an accused person.

Instead, it is a fact-finding proceeding designed to establish the truth about how someone died.

Last Tuesday, they requested access to the case docket. For the first time since the investigation began, they were permitted to examine its contents.

“We took the docket home and discovered that evidence was missing. We raised these concerns with the court on Thursday,” says Alice.

The original investigating officer has reportedly been removed from the case, which has now apparently been handed over to the police’s anti-corruption unit.

“We have not received any updates from the station commander or the prosecutor. The prosecutor indicated she would recuse herself after we expressed that we no longer trust her,” Alice adds.

The inquest has now been rescheduled for February 9, 2027.

Tragic background

Thomas, a beloved Hoërskool Driehoek learner, tragically lost his life early this year.

He vanished on January 9 during a private boat trip with friends on the Vaal River, and his body was recovered three days later.

While the incident sparked widespread speculation, clear facts remain scarce.

A post-mortem completed in February indicated no immediate suspicion of foul play, yet his grieving parents continue to be left with unanswered questions.