The family of 15-year-old Tseamo Mampuru from Winnie Mandela Zone 4 in Tembisa has confirmed that the teenager has safely returned home, more than a month after she was reported missing. The news has brought immense relief to the community, which had been deeply involved in efforts to locate her.
Tseamo was last seen on Saturday, 6 September 2025, wearing a white T-shirt and blue leggings. Her disappearance was reported publicly five days later, on 11 September, sparking widespread concern and an outpouring of support across social media platforms. The case quickly gained traction online as residents shared photos and messages under missing person alerts, calling for any information that could help bring her home.
Basadi Koma, confirmed to Voice of Tembisa that Tseamo has since reunited with her family. While the family expressed gratitude for the overwhelming community support, they have chosen not to disclose details regarding the circumstances of her disappearance or her return, asking for privacy as they focus on Tseamo’s well-being.
“We are grateful beyond words that Tseamo is home safe,” Koma said. “This has been a very difficult time for our family, and we sincerely thank everyone who prayed for her, shared her pictures, and never gave up hope. We ask that people give her space to heal.”
Community members in Winnie Mandela Zone 4 reacted with joy and relief, celebrating the teen’s safe return. Over the past month, neighbours, classmates, and local youth groups had coordinated search efforts, putting up posters and partnering with Tembisa SAPS and Missing Children South Africa to circulate her information nationally.
Resident Martha Maluleke, who participated in the searches, said, “We are just happy she’s back home. Everyone here felt the pain of her disappearance — Tseamo is one of our own. We thank God and everyone who helped.”
Police spokesperson Captain Nare Raphasha confirmed that authorities were informed of Tseamo’s safe return. “Standard follow-up investigations are underway, which include ensuring the child’s safety and verifying the circumstances surrounding her disappearance,” he said.
The case has highlighted the importance of community cooperation in missing persons investigations. For now, the Mampuru family is prioritizing Tseamo’s recovery and emotional support, expressing heartfelt thanks to the public for their compassion and assistance during what they described as “a frightening but faith-filled chapter.”
