After 22 days of intensive efforts, the search for missing teenager Rikus Kylander has officially been concluded.

Rikus disappeared during a snorkelling trip in Mozambique on December 18.

Over the past three weeks, numerous co-ordinated search operations were conducted in an attempt to locate him.

These efforts spanned land, sea and air, involving multiple volunteers and rescue teams working under often difficult and unpredictable conditions.

• Also read: Missing Rikus: Rescue teams still searching

Renegades Search and Rescue spokesperson Dawn Gounden confirmed to Krugersdorp News on January 10 that the active search phase has now come to an end.

“Dedicated volunteers worked tirelessly in challenging conditions,” she said.

While the formal search has concluded, the family and search co-ordinators have appealed to the public to remain vigilant and to report any information that may assist in locating Rikus, Gounden added.

“The family has expressed deep gratitude to everyone who assisted in the search, whether through time, resources or on-the-ground efforts,” she said.

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

“They also extend sincere appreciation to the people of South Africa for their prayers, messages of support and compassion during this profoundly difficult and heartbreaking time.”

Gounden emphasised that although organised search operations have ended, any information related to Rikus’s disappearance should be reported immediately to the relevant authorities.