Minister Patricia De Lille's Message to Alleged Kidnapper of 4 Year Old Asenathi Khohliso

The Department of Social Development is extremely concerned about the whereabouts of little Asenathi Khohliso, who disappeared outside her grandmothers' home in Khayelitsha, on Sunday evening.

We hear about the disappearance of children so frequently and yet it is equally alarming each time we are faced with this information.

As the Minister of Social Development I would like to encourage caregivers and community members to adopt the notion that we are all responsible for the wellbeing of the most vulnerable members of our society, especially those that cannot defend themselves.

If reports that a man led Asenathi away from her friends are true then I would like to appeal to this man - please understand that you have a problem and that the best thing you can do is take Asenathi with you to the nearest Social Development Office, where we can give the help you need.

If caregivers or communities think one of their children has gone missing, please do the following as a matter of urgency:

1. Contact the police immediately (there is no need to wait 72 hours)
2. Have a recent photograph of your child on hand
3. At all times, make absolutely sure you know where your child is
4. Ensure that your children know where they live, and can give contact details of caregivers or parents, should they be found

I have also spoken with Community Safety Minister Albert Fritz, who has assured me that the police are doing everything in their power to find Asenathi.