Richard Thole disappeared into a ventilation shaft while playing with his friend on land once owned by the disused Balmoral Mine. He was just five years old. He would have turned nine on 18 October 2021 and be attending a primary school in grade 3 or 4 this year.
Attempts to retrieve the body of Richard by police, emergency services and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) have delivered no results.
Richard Thole and his father Meshack Mohlala at Richard’s birthday celebration on 18 October 2014. (Photo: Supplied)
Boksburg police have confirmed opening an inquiry: “Due to the inability to retrieve and confirm the body, the SAPS had to open an inquiry into the matter. Currently, we are in the process of obtaining a statement from a minor who is alleged to be a witness”, said Colonel Noxolo Kweza.