Search and rescue teams have been combing the sea and shore break between Zinkwazi and Tinley Manor since first light this morning with no sign of the missing teen.

A 15-year-old boy was swept out to sea yesterday afternoon at Blythedale beach, while his friends watched helplessly from the shore.

The boy had apparently snuck away early from school with five of his friends and walked  to Blythdale beach to swim, despite the beach being closed to bathers due to the rough conditions.

The sea search by SAPS search and rescue, IPSS medical rescue and KwaDukuza lifeguards, and the Specialised Rescue Unit  was called off at midday but members of the KwaDukuza fire department have continued to search the shoreline.

Quentin Powers of the Specialised Rescue Unit said they feared that the current may be pushing offshore, which offered little hope of finding the boy’s body.

“If this is the case then the chances of finding him are almost zero,” said Powers.

IPSS Medical Rescue’s Rodney Meyrick said they especially wanted to thank local microlight pilots for their assistance during today’s search.