SAPS SEARCH AND RESCUE OPERATIONS UNDERWAY AT MBAULA VILLAGE TO LOCATE A 05 YEAR OLD BOY REPORTED MISSING DURING FLASH FLOODS

MBAULA VILLAGE – The SAPS Search and Rescue teams together with the South African National Defense Force and the Emergency Medical Services are navigating through raging waters in Mbaula village outside Giyani to locate a five year old boy, Siyanda Baloyi who was reported missing on Thursday morning, 15 January 2026.

The Polices spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba reports that, it is alleged the child went missing around 06:00 am after his mother tried to escape from the house along with the child since it was filled with water. The duo were allegedly swept away by the floods.

The mother was fortunately trapped by a tree and was rescued by the members of the SANDF, while the child could not be located. The Search and Rescue operations have been intensified by the multi-disciplinary teams to try and locate the missing child.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Major General Jan Scheepers has called on communities affected by flooding to work with the law enforcement to ensure their safety. “Our multi-disciplinary teams will continue to navigate dangerous waters to reach and assist residents in distress. It is important that we prioritize safety especially during these rainy conditions,” said Major General Jan Scheepers.

“We urge the public not to attempt to cross rivers, streams, or bridges under any circumstances. Floodwaters are unpredictable and extremely dangerous,” added Major General Jan Scheepers.

Anyone with information that can assist to safely locate the child, please contact detective Lieutenant Colonel Mbalati JJ at 0825656491 or Crime Stop number 08600 10111.