Gauteng police have confirmed that SAPS divers are actively searching the Vaal Dam for a teenager who reportedly disappeared while with his family.
The tragic incident occurred over the weekend, as reported by News24 when an 18-year-old grade 12 pupil from Greenside High School fell into the water.
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The teenager, whose name is Reza, was attempting to retrieve his belongings that had been blown into the dam by a gust of wind.
Witnesses say he struggled against the strong currents and was last seen battling to swim back. The search has become increasingly urgent, with rescue efforts extending into their second day.
Reza’s father, Bilal Saloojee, expressed the family’s desperation and shock over the incident. In a statement, Bilal conveyed their distress, saying, “What happened was sudden. We are devastated. We are in shock. I hope we will find him soon.”
He further added he was optimistic that the police divers’ continued search efforts would yield results, although they fear the worst.
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Noxolo Kweza, the Gauteng police spokesperson, confirmed that divers were on-site for a second day following the registration of a missing person’s case.
The community and authorities are collectively hoping for a positive outcome, despite the strong possibility of a tragic end. No updates were available at the time of publishing, and the wait continues for Reza’s family and friends.
Police divers are still searching the Vaal Dam near the Vaal Marina for 18-year-old Reza Saloojee.
He was on a fishing trip with relatives. Reza went into the water to try and retrieve some belongings when he disappeared.
Reza is the head boy at Greenside High in Johannesburg.… pic.twitter.com/gvyqTMQiKo
— Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) August 12, 2024
