A sense of urgency and concern grips families and rescuers as Hoërskool Noordheuwel matriculant Rikus Kylander (18), who has been missing for 18 days after vanishing during a snorkelling excursion in Mozambique on December 18.

The Krugersdorp News spoke to Renegades Search and Rescue spokesperson Dawn Gounden today, January 5, who said that teams conducted co-ordinated aerial, sea, and surface searches on Saturday along the South African coastline, including Sodwana Bay and Kosi Bay, extending to Ponto do Ouro, Mozambique.

• Also read: The search for Rikus continues despite challenging conditions

She said that the police’s search and rescue teams remained actively deployed throughout the day, conducting extensive searches and leaving no stone unturned.

“Dive operations also continued in Ponto do Ouro, with divers working under challenging conditions,” she said.

• Also read: Search efforts continue for missing Krugersdorp teen in Mozambique

Gounden added that communities in South Africa and Mozambique, holiday-goers, and members of the public have contributed support and assistance in the ongoing effort to bring closure.

• Read the initial article here: Teen missing while snorkelling in Mozambique

“We extend our sincere appreciation to all community members, volunteers, and organisations who continue to provide support, prayers, and assistance during this difficult time,” she concluded.

Anyone with information that could assist the search is urged to contact Dawn on 074 712 5855.