The extensive emergency rescue operation at Wemmer Pan Dam in the south of Johannesburg has been called off for now, following hours of coordinated searching today (July 2), reports Southern Courier.

Provincial South African Police Service (SAPS) diving teams, a police helicopter and the City of Johannesburg EMS Aquatic Rescue Unit spent several hours combing the area after fears arose that the missing child might be in the water.

Three-year-old Milano Jayson Tlali was last seen at Glenesk Welfare Park at around 14:00 on Tuesday (June 30).

Officials confirmed that while the active search at the dam has been suspended, they are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and have not yet determined what transpired.

According to a missing child notice circulated by the family, Milano was barefoot at the time of his disappearance and was wearing a blue tracksuit, a jersey and Springbok pants. He has hair styled in two ponytails.

When the initial notice was shared, the family indicated they were still waiting for an official police case number.

The family is urgently appealing to members of the public to come forward with any information that may assist in locating the child.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Moffat View SAPS on 071 675 6330, Monique Jenny-Lee on 072 216 5449 or report to the nearest police station.

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