Bones Found on Anniversary of Anovuyo’s Disappearance

As community members gathered to mark one year since the disappearance of eight-year-old Anovuyo Oncke, residents were left shocked when bones and a blood-stained dress were discovered just hours after the commemoration.

Police have not yet confirmed whether the bones are human or whether they are linked to Anovuyo.

Community worker Beryl Williams has appealed to residents of Phumlani Village and surrounding areas not to spread unconfirmed information following the discovery in the Riemvasmaak informal settlement on Monday, 7 September 2026.

Anovuyo went missing on 7 September 2025 after reportedly going to play with friends in the area.

Williams says the discovery has caused concern in the community, but residents should allow police to conduct their investigation and establish whether the remains are linked to the missing child.

“I want to make it clear that we should not speculate at this stage, we should allow the police to do their investigations. Her parents are very traumatised and we want to make it clear that we will not share unconfirmed information.”

Community worker Beryl Williams and Anovuyo’s parents at the commemoration

Grassy Park police have confirmed that they have opened an inquest docket. Police say community members were reportedly cleaning when they made the disturbing discovery.

“Grassy Park police responded to a complaint at Riemvasmaak informal settlement, Phumlani Village, where community members were reportedly cleaning and they found bones and a blood-stained dress under a container. Police opened an inquest docket for investigation.”

Commenting on whether the remains could be those of the missing eight-year-old, police said it was too early to confirm.

“At this stage, we cannot confirm that it is human remains or that the bones are of the missing child. A forensic examination will be conducted.”

The discovery has caused further distress in a community that has spent the past year hoping for answers about what happened to Anovuyo.

Earlier this month, the Wynberg Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit appealed to anyone with information to come forward and assist in tracing the missing child. A reward of up to R50,000 was offered for information that could lead to her return.