Police trainee Tristan Chowles, 23, who vanished after being discharged from a Pretoria hospital, has been found safe and unharmed. However, his absence without leave from the SAPS Tshwane Training Academy may lead to disciplinary action.
Chowles, who is enrolled in a nine-month basic policing programme, was reported missing over the weekend after failing to return to the academy following his release from the hospital on September 18. A missing person case was opened at Garsfontein police station, sparking a search.
According to social media reports, Chowles was traced through a bank transaction at OR Tambo International Airport. It is alleged that he flew to Durban to celebrate his birthday without notifying anyone, an action the academy would not have permitted during his training.
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, a police spokesperson, confirmed that Chowles was located by his parents in KwaZulu-Natal on Monday. While relieved to find him safe, Mathe stressed that the SAPS is investigating the incident, noting that “any gross misconduct will be dealt with accordingly.” Chowles has reportedly been instructed to return immediately or risk losing his place in the programme.
