CAPE TOWN - After being missing for two weeks, the teacher of Kuils River teen Siphokazi Joka said she has been found unharmed.
Khanyisa Khwaza said the 18-year-old, whose missing poster has trended on social media, has returned home.
“The family has confirmed with me that the girl has been found and I too can confirm that,” he said.
Joka had gone missing on October 8, with her family and friends saying they last saw her when she took a taxi from Nyanga to Kuilsriver.
The Cape Times contacted Kwaza who said that she has been found, while police spokesperson FC Van Wyk said the search continues.
Separately, the family of 27-year-old teacher Sizwe Yaphi, who was shot and killed while he was out with his friends at the weekend, said he was a kind and forgiving person.
Yaphi was a teacher at Masiyile High School in Khayelitsha.
His mother Zoliswa said the family has “lost a shining diamond”.
“I am hurt and my heart goes out to his learners.
“Many learners would come into my house for weekend lessons and I would give him space and time to do everything that has to do with educating the learners.
“Many people including teachers and learners have been coming to the house to send their condolences and tell of the kind of a person he was.
“He died very young but his impact will forever live.
“If we had misunderstandings as a family, he would come in and not take sides but try to resolve whatever matter.
“My son had nothing but a forgiving heart, he would usually say, mom don’t take it personally just let it go because this will pass one day and we will laugh about it,” said Zoliswa.
Police spokesperson Joseph Swartbooi said the motive for the attack is unknown.
“Upon arrival at the crime scene they found the body of an unknown man who sustained gunshot wounds to his chest. The victim was declared deceased on the scene by the medical personnel. The unknown suspect/s fled the scene in an undisclosed direction and are yet to be arrested,” said Swartbooi.
Anyone with information can anonymously contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111