Elderly resident vanishes after leaving home for funeral
Authorities in Limpopo have launched an urgent appeal for information to help track down a 109-year-old woman who went missing from her home in the Hlanganani policing area more than a week ago.
Mphephu Betty Makhubelo, believed to be one of the oldest residents in the Mopani District, was last seen on the morning of Thursday, 5 March 2026, at her home in the Phongololo Section of Rotterdam Village. She reportedly left her residence at around 06:00 to attend a funeral at a neighbouring house but never reached her destination.
No one has seen or heard from the centenarian since her disappearance, prompting growing concern among family members and local law enforcement officials.
"Police in Hlanganani under the Mopani District are appealing to members of the public to assist in locating a missing senior citizen."
Description and appeal for information
Investigators have provided a detailed description of Makhubelo in the hope that members of the community may be able to assist with the search. She is described as light in complexion, of medium height and medium build. When she was last spotted, she was dressed in yellowish Tsonga traditional attire.
Law enforcement officials have urged anyone who may have information regarding Makhubelo's whereabouts to come forward without delay. Authorities have given assurances that all tip-offs and leads provided by the public will be handled in the strictest confidence.
The case has drawn attention owing to Makhubelo's remarkable age, with community members expressing deep worry about the wellbeing of the elderly woman given the length of time she has been unaccounted for.
Anyone with information that could help reunite Makhubelo with her family is encouraged to contact their nearest police station immediately.
South Africa's ageing population often lacks adequate support systems in rural communities, making cases like this particularly concerning for vulnerable elderly residents across the country. The disappearance highlights gaps in community safety networks and the challenges faced by law enforcement in remote areas of Limpopo. Should the search prove successful, it may prompt renewed calls for improved welfare monitoring of senior citizens in underserved districts, potentially influencing local policy discussions around elder care and rural safety infrastructure.
