Two families in the Western Cape have started the new year under very different circumstances after their children vanished without a trace just days before 2026 began. At the time of his disappearance, Oyama was wearing green shorts, an orange jacket and pink running shoes. Police have since intensified their search and are appealing to the public for assistance.
“The Khayelitsha Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit seeks the assistance of the public to help find eight-year-old Oyama Titshala, who went missing on December 14, 2025, when he left his home in Ceba Street, Makhaza, and has not been seen since,” said police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg. The investigation is being led by Detective Captain Riccardo McCree, who can be contacted directly on 082 522 3154. Information can also be reported anonymously to Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
While Oyama’s family continues to wait anxiously for answers, there was relief on the other side of the city when 12-year-old Gael Nukendy was safely reunited with his family in Happy Valley on Tuesday afternoon. Gael had also gone missing, sparking concern among relatives and the community. His cousin told Weekend Argus that the boy was returned by members of the public while an interview with the family was still underway.
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“We are just thankful that he’s back. He actually stepped in while you were speaking to his mother,” the cousin said. “He is safe and unharmed. Thank you to the people who found him and brought him back.” Missing persons advocate Veranique Benji Williams, founder of the Faith and Hope Missing Persons Unit, said the festive season once again saw a sharp increase in missing children cases across the province.
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