Missing siblings search intensifies

The search for two missing Bulawayo siblings, five-year-old Nkosana Smile Sibanda and his 10-year-old sister Shauna, remains active as police continue investigations and follow up on fresh leads in a case that has captured national attention.

Authorities are also searching for the children's father, Smile Sibanda, amid growing concern over the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of the siblings.

Police have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and to rely only on official communication channels for information, warning against the circulation of unverified reports on social media.

The disappearance of the two children has sparked widespread concern since late May after their father allegedly collected them for what was understood to be a routine weekend visit.

Anxiety over their welfare intensified after reports emerged that the father allegedly sent a series of troubling messages and a video to the children's mother, prompting fears about the youngsters' safety and whereabouts.

Since then, police, family members and concerned citizens have been involved in efforts to locate the children, with the case drawing widespread public attention across Zimbabwe.

Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson Nomalanga Msebele recently confirmed that investigations were continuing and appealed to the public for assistance.

Search efforts have included tracking possible movements and verifying numerous reports received from members of the public. Police said every lead is being thoroughly investigated as officers work to establish the whereabouts of both the children and their father.

The case has generated an outpouring of support from communities across the country, with citizens sharing missing persons notices and assisting efforts to raise awareness.

Child rights advocates have also expressed concern, emphasising the importance of protecting children and resolving custody-related disputes through lawful processes.

Family members have continued to appeal for information that could assist in the safe return of Nkosana and Shauna, describing the period since their disappearance as one of immense anguish and uncertainty.

Police have reiterated their call for anyone with actionable information to come forward.

"Anyone with information that may assist investigations can contact ZRP Njube directly on (0292) 412096 or report to the nearest police station," said police.

Authorities have assured the public that the search remains ongoing and that all available resources are being deployed in efforts to locate the missing children and bring clarity to a case that continues to concern Zimbabweans nationwide.