Body of missing teenager Bonolo Rabe found in Eastern Cape
The family of Bonolo Rabe has confirmed that the 18-year-old's body has been found, bringing a tragic end to a search that began when she disappeared in Aliwal North on September 6.
Bonolo, who had Down syndrome, went missing in the Eastern Cape town located on the banks of the Orange River in the Joe Gqabi District Municipality, approximately 195 kilometres from Bloemfontein. Her disappearance prompted widespread appeals for public assistance as her loved ones searched desperately for the vulnerable teenager.
In a statement, her brother Ntobeko Rabe thanked everyone who had supported the family during the agonising days of uncertainty. As Bonolo's family, we sincerely thank the social media community, the community at large, SAPS, churches, and all individuals and organisations who assisted in the search and supported us during this difficult time.
The family confirmed the devastating news but did not disclose how Bonolo died or where her body was discovered. They have asked the public to allow investigators space to establish what happened to the young woman.
We sadly confirm that Bonolo's body has been found. We would ask everyone to give space and respect to SAPS, including the detectives, to do their diligent work in this investigation,
Ntobeko said.
The family has appealed for privacy as they mourn their loss. We kindly ask everyone to respect the family's privacy as we come to terms with this devastating loss and grieve together as a family,
Ntobeko added.
Missing persons crisis in South Africa
Bonolo's case is part of a broader missing persons crisis affecting South Africa. According to South African Police Service data, approximately 4,900 to 5,000 missing persons cases are formally processed each year, with organisations reporting a noticeable increase in alerts during 2026.
Over a five-year period from 2020 to 2025, SAPS reunited 17,968 missing persons with their families, including 2,963 children under the age of 18. However, 3,099 bodies were recovered in cases linked to presumed drownings or unresolved disappearances during the same period.
Missing Children South Africa's statistics indicate that while 77 percent of missing children are found, at least 23 percent are either never found, trafficked, or found deceased. Organisations assisting families report that Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape continue to record the highest number of missing persons cases.
Vulnerability of persons with disabilities
Bonolo had been described in missing-persons appeals as a vulnerable person requiring support. Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21 that can affect physical development, learning and communication, with the birth prevalence in South Africa estimated at approximately 1.49 to 2 per 1,000 live births.
Research shows that persons with disabilities face heightened risks, with children with disabilities estimated to be 1.5 to 2.1 times more at risk of sexual abuse and three to four times more likely to experience violence globally compared to their peers without disabilities.
Disabled People South Africa has raised concerns about rising cases of abuse of disabled women and girls, noting that gender-based violence and human rights violations against women and girls with disabilities is alarming.
Reporting missing persons
Authorities emphasise that there is no waiting period required to report a missing person to the South African Police Service. Families are advised to report disappearances immediately to the nearest police station.
The family thanked everyone who had helped in the search for Bonolo. Your prayers, support, and compassion have meant more to us than words can express. May Bonolo rest peacefully.
