Eastern Cape police debunk Facebook hoax about child allegedly found in Makhanda

Police have condemned fake posts circulating about a child found in Joza.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) said it is deeply concern about the malicious circulation of fake news on Facebook claiming a child was found in Extension 8, Joza, in Makhanda. 

Police spokesperson, Captain Marius McCarthy, said the post, which has since gone viral, which includes a photograph of an individual, is completely fabricated and false. No such incident has been reported to or recorded by the local police stations.

“This fraudulent scheme is part of a growing social media scam trend where users share emotionally charged posts under the impression they are helping. Scammers often utilise recycled images of children and disable the comment section to prevent community members from warning others about the hoax. Once a post achieves viral reach, perpetrators frequently edit the caption to insert malicious links designed to hijack profiles or steal personal data,” McCarthy said. 

Police said reporting and resharing unverified facts on digital platforms is highly irresponsible. 

“Fabricated alerts regarding child abductions and missing minors cause severe public panic, exhaust critical law enforcement resources, and distract from genuine emergencies,” McCarthy said. 

Police strongly urge members of the public to delete, not to share, and ignore the circulating post. 

“SAPS reminds the community to strictly verify missing or found person notices through official SAPS channels, credible media houses, or recognized non-profit organizations before interacting with them online,” McCarthy said. 

Anyone with information regarding the origin of this false post is urged to contact the police immediately via the Crime Stop toll free number at 08600 10111 or anonymously through the MySAPS App.