Strandfontein residents took to the streets yesterday to search for a 74-year-old oupa who disappeared without a trace over the weekend.
Worried residents say they have searched the entire area, but are unable to find Japhtha Julius who left his home on Sunday afternoon.
His ex-wife Veronica Julius, 67, says the elderly man went to the shop and never returned.
“Our great-granddaughter was visiting us and I went to take her home, but he didn’t want to go with,” says Veronica.
“He left home to go to the shop and I didn’t think anything of it because he often walks to the shop and is very fit.
“When he did not come home I became worried and reported him missing at the police station. He does not have any illnesses and has never gone missing before.
“We have gone to hospitals and mortuaries and found nothing.”
Veronica says CCTV footage shows the oupa walking to the winkel, but then seemingly changing his mind and walking in another direction.
Community Police Forum (CPF) chairperson Sandy Schuter says: “Along with the police we have searched the entire Strandfontein area including the informal settlements, Baden Powell Drive and Lukannon Drive but we have not found him.
“We are assisting SAPS and the community is very worried because he has just vanished.”
Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk confirms that a missing persons docket has been opened.
At the time of his disappearance the oupa was wearing a white peak cap, black jacket and black or blue jeans.
He is bald and clean shaven and has a scar behind his right ear.
If you have seen Japhtha call Strandfontein police on 021 370 1500.
monique.duval@inl.co.za