A day meant to celebrate youth will forever hold painful memories for Zenande Chiloane’s family after his body was recovered from the Crocodile River on June 16. Chiloane was the third victim of a crash that claimed the lives of two other students. His body was found on an island in the river a few kilometres downstream from the accident scene.

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During the nine-day search, police and volunteers worked tirelessly over difficult terrain while navigating dangers posed by wildlife, including crocodiles and hippos, to recover the body. The acting Mpumalanga police commissioner, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, praised all stakeholders involved for their teamwork, professionalism and perseverance throughout the operation.

On the day of the recovery, volunteers from nearby communities and the University of Mpumalanga (UMP) also joined the search in observance of Youth Day. The City of Mbombela (CoM) assisted by obtaining equipment such as brush cutters and pangas from the Department of Agriculture, enabling volunteers to clear paths through dense vegetation.

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Chiloane, a former Lowveld High School learner, will be remembered as an ambitious young man and car enthusiast. His uncle, Thapelo Mogane, said he had planned to enrol at university this year after taking a gap year.

“My mind and my heart cannot believe nor accept that you are gone. The world has been robbed of a genius, a rare breed, a creative and dynamic young man with a promising future,” Mogane shared on his WhatsApp status.

According to Chiloane’s close friend, Ziyanda Shabangu, they had planned to start a car rental business together and were looking forward to securing their first booking.

“He was a light to all of us and we trust in God to strengthen us through this difficult time.”

His grandfather, Michael Mogane, described him as an intelligent young man with a strong interest in science and technology. He added that he enjoyed dressing well, admired expensive cars, and loved taking photographs at family gatherings.

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The family also shared a public statement on Facebook, expressing gratitude to everyone who assisted during the search.

“The Chiloane and Mogane families would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the entire Mbombela community, the Body of Christ church at large, friends, family, all government departments and everyone from both far and near. Your prayers, love and unwavering support during this difficult time carried us through until the closure we were praying for.”

Chiloane’s family and friends gathered daily next to the river for prayer and worship throughout the search.

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Chiloane (21), Vigo Godfrey (20) and Tintswalo Khoza (20) were travelling from a local restaurant on June 7 when their vehicle crashed into the river. Khoza and Godfrey’s bodies were recovered on the day of the accident and have since been laid to rest. Although Chiloane’s family has found some closure, they remain baffled by the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Chiloane’s funeral will take place on June 20 at 07:00 at ETI Mbombela, 2401A Bafana Bafana Street, Mataffin.