With thousands of missing-person cases requiring police attention in South Africa, Renegades Search and Rescue is urging families to keep recent, clear photographs of their loved ones, warning that a photograph could prove crucial when someone disappears.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) reported in May 2025 that 17,968 people who had been reported missing were reunited with their families between 2020 and 2025, including 2,963 children under the age of 18. Police also stressed that missing-person reports should be made immediately, without waiting for a specific period to pass.
Renegades Search and Rescue, a non-profit organisation led by head search co-ordinator Dawn Gounden, said having up-to-date photographs readily available could make a significant difference when a missing-person appeal needs to be circulated urgently.
“A clear photograph can help members of the public recognise the missing person and assist search teams, police and communities in their efforts to establish their whereabouts.” she said.
The organisation is encouraging families to keep several recent photographs of their loved ones, including clear images of their faces without sunglasses, filters or editing.
It also advises families to update photographs regularly as a person’s appearance changes. Parents and guardians, in particular, should ensure they have recent photographs of their children rather than relying solely on older school photographs.
Families are further encouraged to keep a record of distinguishing features, such as birthmarks, scars, tattoos and piercings, which could assist with identification.
While taking a photograph may seem like a simple everyday task, having an accurate image available when someone goes missing could prove invaluable during a distressing and time-sensitive search.
“Take the photograph today. You never know when it may become the most important photograph you have,” the organisation advised.
