The search for missing 2-year-old Milano Jayson Tlali at Wemmerpan Dam in the south of Johannesburg has been called off after an extensive emergency response operation.

It’s been called off after emergency services thoroughly searched a large section of the dam without success in locating the missing child. Authorities have confirmed that the operation has been suspended for now, while the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident continues.

Provincial SAPS diving teams and a helicopter were deployed to the scene, alongside the City of Johannesburg (CoJ) EMS Aquatic Rescue Unit, which also assisted in the search efforts.

Emergency services spent several hours combing the area as part of the coordinated operation.

Officials said they are still investigating what led to the incident and have not yet confirmed what transpired.

Milano was reportedly last seen at Glenesk Welfare Park at around 14:00 on June 30.

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

Family appeal

The family has urged 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.

The Southern Courier will provide updates as soon as more information becomes available.

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