UPDATE: Search continues for boy (5) swept away in Giyani floods
Rescue teams are still searching for five-year-old Siyanda Baloyi, days after he was separated from his mother in raging floodwaters.
LIMPOPO – A search continues in Mbawula village outside Giyani for five-year-old Siyanda Baloyi, who remains missing days after being swept away by floodwaters.
Desperate operation enters critical phase
The desperate operation, now in its critical phase, involves SAPS search and rescue teams, the SA National Defence Force (SANDF), and emergency medical services navigating treacherous conditions in the hope of a recovery.
The tragedy unfolded in the early hours of Thursday morning, around 00:60, after floodwaters rapidly invaded the family home and forced the two to venture out of their house.
They attempted to reach a nearby tree to avoid being swept away. However, the ferocious current proved overwhelming. As they fought through the raging water, the flood tore them apart, leading to their traumatic separation.
Since Thursday (January 15), search teams have been combing the waterlogged areas of Mbawula village and its surroundings in a desperate effort to find the missing boy.
Rescuers have had to push through fast-moving water, thick debris and difficult terrain as the search intensifies.
No sign of the boy after days of searching
Despite their tireless efforts, there has still been no sign of the child.
The ongoing operation highlights not only the dangers posed by the floods but also the deep pain and uncertainty faced by families and the wider community in their aftermath.
Asked about the progress regarding the missing child in Mbawula, Giyani police spokesperson Ridgewell Rikhotso said police were still searching.
“The search for the missing boy is still underway; we have not found him yet,” he said.
How the public can assist
Acting provincial police commissioner Major General Jan Scheepers, has called on communities affected by flooding to work with law enforcement to ensure their safety.
“Our multi-disciplinary teams will continue to navigate dangerous waters to reach and assist residents in distress. It is important that we prioritise safety, especially during these rainy conditions,” said Scheepers.
Anyone with information that can assist in the safe location of the child is requested to contact Lt Col JJ Mbalati at 082 565 6491 or the Crime Stop number 08600 10111.
