ANOVUYO'S PARENTS FACE NEGLECT CHARGES

Her Grade 3 desk stands empty as the search for the missing Lotus River girl continues

- GENEVIEVE SERRA

AS SCHOOLS are set to open for the 2026 school year next weekthe parents of eight-year-old Anovuyo Oncke of Phumlani Village have been arrested for child negligence and are due back in court next month.

Anovuyo is set to begin Grade three at Perivale Primary School in Lotus River but her spot remains empty at her desk with her classmates missing her.

This week, the Department of Social Development (DSD) confirmed they had been made aware of Anovuyo's case and was providing support.

Community workers and missing persons organisations who have rallied find Anovuyo said despite the case having reached a form of development with the charge of negligence, the child remains missing.

Police spokesperson, Constable Ndakhe Gwala confirmed that both parents, Samantha Oncke, and Luvuyo Matile were arrested on charges of child negligence when questioned by Cape Argus what the latest developments were in the case.

"Be advised that the child is still missing. Both parents were arrested and charged for child negligence. They are currently out on bail, awaiting their next court appearance," she said.

Anovuyo went missing on September 6 2025 while playing with friends and is from Riemvasmaak informal settlement in Phumlani Village near Lotus River.