Missing UK woman, died in January ‘checked in’ to Cape Town airport
· The South African
Western Cape police have concluded an investigation into missing person Naomi Gaynor Bernes, who has passed away, but checked into her flight at the Cape Town International Airport in April.
WHAT HAPPENED TO MISSING PERSON NAOMI GAYNOR BERNES?
Police in the Western Cape sought public assistance in tracing missing 62-year-old Naomi Gaynor Bernes on Sunday. It has been reported that Bernes checked in at the Cape Town International Airport on 20 April to fly back to the United Kingdom, but never boarded the plane. She was reportedly not seen since. UK authorities were unsuccessful in trying to contact her. A missing person’s report was filed a few weeks later on 12 May.
Visit umafrika.club for more information.
In a twist of events, Bernes is believed to have died on 29 January due to natural causes. Captain Frederick van Wyk, provincial police spokesperson, said the Bureau for Missing Persons conducted inquiries and information was received and verified through the attorney responsible for the administration of Naomi’s estate.
“It was confirmed that Ms Bernes passed away on January 29, 2026, due to natural causes,” said Captain Frederick van Wyk.
“The investigation was finalised after the relevant information was verified and all necessary enquiries were completed. The South African Police Service extends its sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Ms Bernes during this difficult time,” van Wyk continued.
SO, WHO CHECKED IN AT THE AIRPORT?
After police confirmed that Bernes had in fact passed away in January. Who checked in under her name at the Cape Town International Airport in April? Further details have not been officially disclosed. However, reports claim that the investigation is centred on potential identity theft and fraud.
“Kindly be advised that the case you are referring to is still under investigation and due to the sensitive nature this office cannot elaborate further on this matter,” van Wyk is reported to have said.
This comes amid news of a tourist being killed in Kruger National Park.