Despite many warnings for parents, calls to chase her out of town and threats to beat her up, no official charges have been brought against a woman accused of kidnapping children in Cloetesville.

Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Zenobia Sedeman confirmed that police are aware of the rumours surrounding the woman in question, but no official cases of kidnapping has been registered.

“Numerous enquiries from community members were made and Cloetesville police were called out to investigate. We urge the community to report incidents of kidnapping as soon as possible so that the necessary action can be taken,” Sedeman said.

Rumours of a woman trying to snatch children in and around Cloetesville and Kayamandi spread like wildfire on social media after the unknown woman was seen walking in the vicinity. Some locals claimed she seemed disorientated, walking around various businesses, while others claimed she was responsible for kidnappings in other towns.

Threats of stoning and assault were made by many a community member claiming that waiting for the woman to “do something” was out of the question and a more “pro-active” approach should be taken before she stole a little one.

One local explained the woman had approached him claiming she was from Durban and in Stellenbosch for a job interview, but upon arrival found the company she applied to did not exist.

The community member said she asked if he could help book her a ticket back home. He added the woman’s behaviour was suspicious.

Sedeman urged the community to contact the local police station if they see the woman in their vicinity.