By Thokozani Mazibuko
The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) has turned to social media in a desperate attempt to find an Ethiopian national who has gone missing from Mpaka Refugee camp.
In an official statement released on their Facebook page, the police service urgently called on the public to come forward with any information that could help locate the missing person.
The missing individual, whose identity has been withheld for privacy reasons, is believed to be a refugee seeking asylum.
Refugees undergo immense hardships during their journeys and often find themselves in unfamiliar territories, making them more vulnerable to certain risks.
The disappearance of this Ethiopian national has further heightened concerns over the plight of refugees within the region.
ALSO READ: Nine people go missing in four weeks
According to the REPS, the missing Ethiopian refugee was reported missing by camp authorities some time ago and the police have been actively investigating the disappearance, but as time passes, the urgency to locate the missing individual has intensified.
It is believed that rallying the members of the public will help increase the chances of finding the missing refugee.
The REPS has reached out to citizens and residents of Eswatini, urging them to provide any information regarding the person’s possible whereabouts.
“Should anyone have any information regarding this matter or have seen a missing Ethiopian national who is a refugee currently residing at Mpaka Refugee Camp, kindly contact the nearest police station or call the emergency line,” the statement read.
Details about how the Ethiopian refugee went missing remain undisclosed, as the investigation is still ongoing.
Authorities have acknowledged the importance of finding this individual swiftly, ensuring their safety and well-being.
The REPS has appealed to the public’s sense of solidarity, emphasizing the importance of unified community efforts during such challenging times.
The police service urged residents to remain vigilant and pass on any information, regardless of how trivial it may seem, as it could provide crucial leads for investigators.
News of the missing Ethiopian national has drawn attention to the vulnerabilities faced by refugees in the Mpaka Refugee camp and other similar settlements worldwide.
ALSO READ: Aircraft carrying Malawi vice president missing
Organizations and charities committed to refugee welfare have also joined the efforts to raise awareness about this case.
The urgency to locate the missing refugee and ensure their safety has become a responsibility shared by the entire community.
By mobilizing resources, leveraging social media platforms, and urging the public to act as the eyes and ears of the authorities, Eswatini hopes to exemplify the spirit of compassion and humanitarianism.
As investigations continue, the Royal Eswatini Police Service remains committed to a thorough search and hopes that community involvement will yield positive results.
The need for collective support has never been greater, and every effort counts in bringing the Ethiopian national back safely to the Mpaka Refugee camp.
Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to report it to the nearest police station or contact the emergency line immediately.
