Missing PSL match official found in the bushes
"He was eventually found in the bushes in Madibogo village."
The missing PSL match official Tshepo Nojila has been found alive and reunited with his family in Madibogo Village in the North West province.
The assistant referee, Nojila, caused a stir over the weekend after he was reported to be missing for five days. The 32-year-old last officiated in a DStv Premiership match between Royal AM and Golden Arrows on 4 February.
But he failed to return the hired vehicle as scheduled which started to raise eyebrows amongst his family members and the SAFA.
SAFA head of referees Abdul Basit Ebrahim had confirmed to FARPost over the weekend that the association was concerned about Nojila’s whereabouts. His family also opened a missing person case with the Mmabatho Police station.
WHAT NORTH WEST POLICE HAVE TO SAY
North West police spokesperson Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone has since confirmed to FARPost that Nojila was discovered in the bushes by members of the community.
Mokgwabone sent a statement to this publication on Monday morning.
“We can confirm that Tshepo Nojila (32) was reported missing at Mmabatho Police Station on Thursday, 9 February 2023. He was eventually found in the bushes in Madibogo village on Sunday, 12 February 2023, after being spotted by members of the community who informed the family.
“Nojila was found in a car he was driving when he went missing. He has been handed to his family. Nojila left his place at Madibogo village on Tuesday, 7 February 2023 , going to Mahikeng to return a hired vehicle. He never returned home and didn’t answer calls. His sister went to register a missing person enquiry at Mmabatho Police Station on Thursday, 9 February 2023,” read the statement.
MISSING PSL MATCH OFFICIAL FOUND
This publication reached out to Ebrahim, who confirmed that the association has also been alerted of the latest developments.
Ebrahim said they were relieved that the match official was found unharmed and they would be offering their support when required.
“We have no other information on where he came from or where they found him. The most important thing is that he was unharmed, everything is fine and he is with his family,” he said.
“Most definitely [we will offer support]. For now we just want to give the family some space so that they can deal with everything.
“But yes, we are in regular contact with the family. We will be finding out what is it that HE will require and what kind of support is needed. So that we are able to assist from the football community side.”
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