A 27-year-old Liswati man who reportedly left Eswatini in search of employment has allegedly ended up living on the streets in Randburg, South Africa, according to information shared by the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The missing man, identified as Owethu Nkanyiso Magagula, was last seen by his next of kin on April 29, 2025, before he was later reported missing in Eswatini.
According to SAPS, a breakthrough in tracing his whereabouts came on May 5, 2026, when the missing man allegedly contacted a friend using a South African cellphone number. During the conversation, he reportedly informed the friend that he was in Randburg searching for employment opportunities.
Police said information gathered thereafter suggested that Magagula may now be living among the street population in the area.
It is alleged that a Good Samaritan who encountered the missing man had offered him money to buy food. However, when later contacted for further information, the same individual reportedly indicated that Magagula was last seen near a McDonald’s outlet in Randburg.
The Good Samaritan further alleged that the Eswatini national had been sleeping on the streets together with homeless people in the area.
Authorities also stated that Magagula had allegedly been spotted around the Sandton Library, raising hopes that he may still be moving between parts of Johannesburg’s northern suburbs.
The case has since drawn the attention of INTERPOL Pretoria as efforts continue to locate the missing man and establish his current condition.
Members of the public with information that may assist investigators have been urged to contact Lt Col Kgopa of INTERPOL Pretoria on 012 407 0472 or 079 514 3551. Alternatively, tip-offs may be submitted through Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App.
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