Online Reporter
Peter Matika
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POLICE have dismissed as false and misleading social media rumours claiming that two Bulawayo children who went missing after being taken by their father have been found dead.
The rumours surfaced on various social media platforms over the weekend, sparking widespread panic and grief among residents already following the disturbing case involving five-year-old Nkosana Smile Sibanda and his 10-year-old sister, Shauna Sibanda.
The siblings, both from Njube suburb, have been missing since 22 May after they were allegedly taken by their father, Smile Sibanda (45), of Pumula South.
Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele said investigations were still ongoing. She urge members of the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could further traumatise the affected family.
“Police would like to dispel rumours circulating on social media alleging that the missing children have been murdered. These claims are false and have not been confirmed by investigators. The search for the children and their father is continuing,” she said.
The case has gripped Bulawayo and beyond, following allegations that the children’s father sent disturbing messages to their mother after taking custody of the children for what was supposed to be a weekend visit.
According to police reports, the mother allegedly received a video showing the children tied on both their hands and feet in a bushy area, followed by a voice note in which the suspect allegedly made chilling remarks suggesting that she would never see the children alive again.
The messages triggered a massive search operation and worsened fears for the safety of the young siblings.
Ms Angeline Ndlovu, the children’s mother, said she is experiencing her worst nightmare, as each passing day brings renewed anxiety over the whereabouts and well-being of her children.
Residents across the city have also joined calls for the safe return of the siblings, with many sharing missing persons alerts and appealing for information that could lead investigators to the children.
The case has attracted significant public attention amid growing concern over child protection and custody-related disputes, which police say can sometimes escalate into criminal matters.
Insp Msebele said the father remains the prime suspect in the matter and appealed to anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the children or their father to urgently contact the police.
She also urged members of the public to rely only on official police statements and verified information as investigations into the high-profile disappearance intensify.
“Anyone with information that may assist police investigations is encouraged to contact ZRP Njube on (0292) 412096 or report to the nearest police station,” said Insp Msebele.
derick.khumalo