Search for missing matric pupil: Drones and K9 unit deployed (2024)

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Published by Aiden Daries on August 16, 2024

Western Cape police have intensified their efforts to locate missing matric student Romano Fredericks, enlisting the help of drones and a K9 unit.

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Romano (18) disappeared over a week ago, last seen by his family on 3 August when he left his home in Vredenburg, on the West Coast, to visit a friend in Laaiplek, Cape {town} Etc reports.

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According to his grandmother and legal guardian, Anna Fredericks, Romano mentioned that he would take a minibus taxi to his friend’s place in the morning and planned to return before dark. However, he never came back, and attempts to reach him on his cellphone have been unsuccessful.

‘It’s been over 10 days, and there’s still no sign of him. I’m heartbroken, knowing my grandchild is out there somewhere, and we can’t find him. This is completely out of character for him,’ said Anna Fredericks.

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Romano’s friend informed Anna that he had left their house before 2pm. It was later discovered that Romano attended a rugby tournament and was given a ride by some people he met there, who dropped him off near Vredenburg. From there, he reportedly began walking home on foot.

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Despite extensive searches by the community, police, and family, no trace of Romano has been found. ‘We just want him to come back home safely,’ said Anna Fredericks.

According to News24, Romano is a matric student at Louwville High School in Vredenburg, and his absence was particularly felt last Thursday, which was the date of the school’s matric ball.

Anna expressed her sorrow, saying Romano had been excited about the event with all his clothes ready, but he went missing just before the big day.

‘What was supposed to be a joyful occasion turned into a day of searching for him. My heart aches wondering where he could be,’ she said.

Describing Romano as a shy and home-loving boy, Anna said his disappearance is baffling and deeply painful. The police have informed her that they are doing everything possible to find him, including tracking his cellphone.

Romano is due to celebrate his 19th birthday on Saturday, and his grandmother holds onto hope that he will be found by then.

‘If he somehow shows up on Saturday, it would be the best news ever. I still believe he will be found, and that the police will soon knock on my door with good news. That would be the best feeling,’ she added.

Western Cape police spokesperson Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi confirmed that drones and a K9 unit have been deployed in the search for Romano.

‘He is still reported missing. A search team has been established and is following all available leads to ensure a breakthrough. The investigation is ongoing,’ said Swartbooi.

Community activist Norman van Wyk voiced the concern of Vredenburg residents, who are worried about a young person disappearing without a trace. ‘

We trust that Romano will be found and reunited with his family. The community has rallied together, spreading awareness about his disappearance. On Monday, we took to the streets, urging people to keep an eye out for him. It’s alarming how our children can go missing like this, but we have faith that the police will locate our young matric pupil,’ said Van Wyk.