Police halt search for missing Willowvale elder after family cites ancestral calling
Police in Willowvale have abandoned a physical search for a missing 69-year-old man after his family expressed strong beliefs that he is with the ancestors and responding to a spiritual calling.
Willowvale police are appealing to the public for assistance in tracing Mandisi Mhaga of the Mendu Administrative Area in Singeni Location, outside Willowvale. Mr Mhaga was last seen on 13 November 2025 and was officially reported missing on 17 November 2025.
According to the missing person report, Mr Mhaga was wearing blue trousers at the time of his disappearance. The witness who last saw him could not confirm what other clothing he may have been wearing.
A K9 Search and Rescue unit was initially alerted to assist in locating Mr Mhaga. However, his family later requested that the search be discontinued, stating their belief that he is with the ancestors and has a spiritual calling. They further indicated that a continued police search could disturb the ancestors and potentially place his life at risk.
In line with the family’s wishes, police did not conduct a physical search. Detectives instead carried out preliminary investigations, but no search-and-rescue operations were deployed.
Police are urging anyone who may have seen Mandisi Mhaga or who has information that could assist in locating him to contact Willowvale SAPS Detective Sergeant Majebe on 082 441 8301. Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111.
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