Family Pleads For Help As SA Teen Vanishes While Snorkelling In Mozambique

A desperate search is underway for an 18-year-old South African teenager who disappeared while snorkelling off the coast of Mozambique, leaving his family clinging to hope and pleading for public assistance.

Rikus Kylander, from Krugersdorp in Gauteng, was last seen at around 13:00 on Thursday, 18 December 2025, while snorkelling at Ponta do Ouro beach. He was holidaying with friends when he entered the water and has not been seen since.

Teen Last Seen Entering the Water

At the time of his disappearance, Rikus was wearing navy shorts and snorkelling goggles. He is described as having an average build, medium height and brown hair.

What was meant to be a carefree holiday afternoon quickly turned into a nightmare, as friends raised the alarm when he failed to return from the water.

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Search Efforts Stretch Across Borders

Search efforts remain ongoing, with authorities and volunteers monitoring coastal areas in Mozambique.

Due to ocean currents, the search has also expanded southwards, with family members urging boaters, fishermen and coastal residents in South Africa to remain vigilant.

Special focus is being placed on the Kosi Bay coastline in Zululand, where there are concerns that currents could carry a person or debris.

The family has appealed to anyone in coastal communities to check shorelines and report anything unusual immediately.

Family’s Urgent Appeal for Help

A missing person case has been opened at Esquadra Police Station in Ponta do Ouro, under case number 331/1/2025.

The Kylander family has made an emotional plea to the public, asking anyone who may be able to assist — no matter how small the information — to come forward.

Anyone with information or who can assist in the search is urged to contact Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) on 086 1234 333.

As hours turn into days, the family continues to hold onto hope, asking communities on both sides of the border to help bring Rikus home.

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