Cape Town – A 23-year-old man from Limpopo remains missing after being caught in rip currents while swimming at Eastmore Crescent, Umhlanga, on Monday afternoon.
Emergency services, including the eThekwini Municipal Umhlanga Surf Lifeguards, NSRI Umhlanga rescue swimmers, and Netcare 911, were activated at 1:15 pm following reports of a drowning in progress.
The man, a university student, had entered the water while visiting the beach with his brother before their return to Johannesburg. Witnesses reported seeing him struggle in the currents before disappearing.
“It appears that 2 brothers, from Limpopo and now living in Johannesburg, were visiting the Drakensberg on a holiday and were returning to Johannesburg. They had decided to go to the beach for a swim before their flight. One brother, age 23, who is studying at Limpopo University, had entered the water to swim. He appeared to be caught in rip currents.
‘A local bystander Good Samaritan man had entered the water to try to help. He retreated when lifeguards and NSRI rescue swimmers joined the search,” NSRI said in a statement.
The extensive search involved lifeguards, rescue swimmers, and the NSRI rescue craft JetRib Rescue 5 Charlie conducting sea and shoreline searches.
Despite their efforts, no signs of the man have been found. The search continues, supported by Police Search and Rescue teams.
The victim’s family, who traveled from Johannesburg, are now in Umhlanga as the rescue efforts persist.
“Our thoughts are with the family during this challenging time,” said a statement from the rescue services.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
