Siphelele Nketo
GRIEF experienced in two neighbouring homes of the missing Marikana children has become complex, and the trauma feels endless.
The continued hopes and despair also leave deep emotional scars in the families. Lathitha Mtolo (7) was reported missing on February 26 after she left home to play in the area of Marikana. Ndalo Jona (7) also disappeared after he left home at around 7pm to look for his soccer ball outside his home on July 12. Their families have described the situation as prolonged emotional torture.
Ndalo’s disappearance has left his family with chronic anxiety and traumatic stress while holding onto the hope that he will return home safely. Ndalo was expected to join Kokstad Public Primary schoolchildren on Tuesday as schools reopened for the second term. He is in Grade 2. It has been reported that his father was discharged from hospital after he spent some days being treated for extensive pain and distress.
Ndalo’s aunt, Thembisa Mtshizana, said the family conducts daily prayers to overcome the misery, while also praying for the return of the child.
“Ndalo’s mom is attending therapy sessions as she is going through trauma,” Mtshizana said. Recent police reports confirmed the skull found in March as that of Lathitha, but her family doubt the reports.
Her mother, Nandipha, has called for a repeat DNA test of the skull, citing a private DNA test as an option. “The family still believes in private DNA testing of the skull because we don’t believe the accuracy of the police reports,” she said. Lathitha was in Grade 2 at Xolo Xolo Primary School when she disappeared.
Her case has been changed from missing to murder after police findings of the skull. Nandipha remains concerned about the missing incidents of both Lathitha and Ndalo in Marikana and said that it raises so many concerns as they are both from KwaGogela, a farm area outside Kokstad. “I never fought with anyone. I don’t have an issue with anyone. But what has happened has left me with unanswered questions as to why these children have been targeted,” probed Nandipha.
According to police spokesperson Mosa Hlaki, cases of missing children are receiving priority. He said a task team has been established. The DA has called for the installation of cameras in Marikana and increased police visibility.
