A seven-year-old autistic boy who went missing on Sunday in Berario, north-west Johannesburg, had still not been found on Monday morning, his father said.
The editor of the Sowetan Sunday World, Thabo Leshilo, father of Ofentse Leshilo, said this is not the first time his son has gone missing.
”We usually find him within an hour,” said Leshilo, who added the situation is very hard on the family.
Ofentse is autistic and extremely hyperactive. He is ”non-verbal”, but does react when his name is called.
Police spokesperson Inspector Amanda Roestoff said Ofentse was playing with his three-year-old brother at about 1pm, when he went missing in Boulder Avenue.
His parents realised something was wrong when his brother came inside crying.
”His brother must have tried to follow him when he went out the gate. He looks out for Ofentse,” said Leshilo.
Police security guards and neighbours were searching the area. Posters have also been put out.
Leshilo said people in the community have been very helpful and many searched through the night, even people the family does not know.
Leshilo was wearing grey shorts and a grey T-shirt.
Anyone with information should call Detective Inspector Andrew Styger at Fairlands police station or Tel: 10111. — Sapa