A Pietermaritzburg family is enduring sleepless nights, anxiously awaiting news about their loved one who was swept away by heavy currents on New Year’s Eve.

It has been just over a week since Makhosi Mazibuko, her son Ntandoyenkosi Mazibuko (7) and her brother-in-law Manzi Mayisa (35) were swept away in their vehicle by turbulent waters of the Msunduzi River, near Henley Dam in KZN, while trying to cross.

Makhosi’s and her son’s bodies were found inside the recovered vehicle, which was successfully retrieved from the river through a joint effort involving community members and the South African National Defence Force.

Mayisa’s body has not yet been found.

Speaking to The Witness, Thanda Hadebe said Makhosi and the child were travelling with Mayisa to shop for New Year’s Eve.

A few minutes after her husband arrived home, he got a call from his wife. She pleaded with him to come save them as they were drowning.

“He rushed to the scene with a rope, but unfortunately currents were already uncontrollable and they were swept away as he was trying to save them,” said the devastated Hadebe, adding that the husband is in desperate need of counselling as he saw them drown.

She said she could not explain how devastated the family is.

“A huge gap has been opened following this incident. She was very helpful to the family. There are children from the family who were supported by her.

“Following her passing, things are going to be difficult. Since the schools will reopen soon; we don’t know what is going to happen.

“Our wish is for him [Mayisa] is to be found and buried. He has been missing for so long. We are a small family that is united. This is a huge loss for us.”

uMgungundlovu district SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Sifiso Gwala confirmed that the search for Mayisa is ongoing.