Mum: I thought my missing daughter was next door!

Timeline of the disappearance

According to Zamdela police, Merica, a grade‑5 pupil, asked her mother to open the gate so she could go outside and play. The mother handed her the keys, not knowing it would be the last time she saw her daughter. Merica sometimes spends the night at a neighbour’s house, and the family assumed she was safe nearby after the gate was opened.

That evening, the family went to bed believing Merica was close by. The following morning, 9 July, the mother went to the neighbour’s house to fetch her, only to be told the child had never arrived. A frantic search of the neighbourhood began immediately, with residents being asked if they had seen the girl, but no one reported any sighting.

Mother’s anguish and public appeal

The mother described her anguish, saying she cannot sleep at night and is living in constant agony. She told reporters that she had thought Merica was “next door” because of the occasional overnight stays, a belief that now haunts her. The mother’s appeal is directed at anyone who might have seen the girl or who might have information about her whereabouts.

Merica is described as having a dark complexion, short natural hair, and was last seen wearing a black and olive‑green jersey, black and pink ladies’ trousers, and pink peep‑toe shoes. The mother’s plea underscores the emotional toll of not knowing where her child is and the desperate hope that a single tip could lead to a safe return.

Police response and community involvement

Zamdela police have issued a public appeal for assistance. Detectives from the Zamdela Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit are handling the case. They have asked residents to come forward with any information, however small it may seem.

Detective Constable Nomathemba Mokhele is the designated contact for leads. The police have provided two phone numbers for the public: 079 165 5545 (Detective Constable Mokhele) and the national Crime Stop line at 08600 10111.

How the public can help

If you live in Mooidraai, Zamdela, or the surrounding Free State area, or if you were in the vicinity on the morning of 8 July, you are asked to contact the investigators immediately.

What the case means for the community

While the investigation remains ongoing, the mother’s relentless appeal and the police’s call for information keep the hope alive that Merica will be found.

Anyone with information about Merica Asango Sitoyile’s whereabouts is urged to contact Detective Constable Nomathemba Mokhele at 079 165 5545 or Crime Stop at 08600 10111 without delay.