Search intensifies for missing Knysna man

The search continues for the 81-year-old Gerhardus 'Gert' David Hills from Knysna, who has now been missing for nearly three weeks.

- Kristy Kolberg

Despite extensive efforts from law enforcement, volunteer networks and private security teams, his whereabouts remain unknown.

But the efforts were expanded this week with Specialised Security Services (SSS), led by investigator Mike Bolhuis, who offered their services free of charge to assist the family, alongside the SAPS, the George CPF, AfriForum Farm Watch, various neighbourhood watches, private security companies and volunteers.

SSS has urged the public not to delay when reporting missing persons and to avoid sharing misinformation, jokes or insensitive commentary around this case.

"If you have relevant information, no matter how small, please contact us directly," said SSS's specialist investigator, Chris Coetser.

Hills, a well-known pigeon fancier, left his home in Kamdebo Avenue, Old Place, Knysna, on Friday 18 July to buy pigeon food in town, but he never returned.