The community of Tekamahala in Bushbuckridge has been left in shock and concern after a 14-year-old boy, identified as Manqoba Buthelezi, went missing on Wednesday night. His disappearance followed a heated exchange with his stepfather, Mike Siwela, who allegedly told the teenager to “go back to where he’s coming from” after returning home late.
According to family accounts, Manqoba arrived at home around 21h30, claiming he had been at soccer training. His stepfather, however, was unhappy with the time of his arrival, as the boy had previously been warned to return before 19h00. In frustration, Mike reportedly ordered the teenager to leave the house, believing it would teach him a lesson about discipline and respecting household rules.
“Sending him back was never out of hate,” Mike explained when asked about the incident. “I wanted him to understand that in this house there are rules, and he must learn to live by them. I thought he would step outside, think about it, and come back. But when I realized he was gone too long, I began searching everywhere in the village. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find him.”
By the following morning, it was clear that Manqoba had not returned. His mother, Nonhlanhla, reported the matter to the police, and a case of a missing person has since been opened. The family and members of the community have since launched a search, but as of now, the teenager’s whereabouts remain unknown.
Nonhlanhla defended her husband against criticism that he may have been too harsh. “People must stop judging Mike,” she said. “My son has been warned many times about coming home late. Even last week, I told him the same thing when he ignored our instructions. Mike actually stood up for him then and asked us to forgive him. This time, he repeated the same mistake. Mike has been in our lives for nine years, and he has never harmed my child. He was only trying to discipline him, not drive him away.”
The missing teenager was last seen wearing a blue Adidas two-piece outfit, black Cavela shoes, and has distinct black, coarse hair. He is described as light in complexion and of slender build. His disappearance has sparked deep concern in the community, with many residents joining the search effort in hopes of reuniting him with his family.
Police have urged anyone with information about Manqoba’s whereabouts to come forward immediately. The case has highlighted broader conversations within the community about parenting, discipline, and the safety of children when conflicts arise within households.
For now, the Buthelezi family remains hopeful for Manqoba’s safe return. “We just want him back home,” said his mother tearfully. “If he hears this, he must know we love him and want him safe.”
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