Dramatic river hunt for missing person!

THE City of Tshwane Emergency Services is continuing its search for a missing person who is believed to have run into the Hennops River in Centurion on Sunday, 22 December.

According to Tshwane Emergency Services spokesman Lindsay Mnguni, the incident was reported at about 7.15am as a potential drowning at West Avenue, near the SuperSport Park Cricket Stadium.

"On arrival, the firefighters and rescuers from the Fire and Rescue Operations Division, along with divers from SAPS's water unit, discovered that a male of unconfirmed age, who allegedly fled from security guards, had run into the river and was swept away by the strong current," he said.

Mnguni said that the firefighters and police divers immediately commenced search and rescue operations, searching in the river and along its banks.

He noted that the search was tricky and risky due to rising water levels and strong currents caused by rainfall upstream.

"The search was suspended due to safety concerns for the search and rescue personnel," he said.

However, the search resumed in the early hours of Monday morning, 23 December. Due to heavy rain overnight, the river continues to present hazardous conditions for the search.

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"We urge communities to remain alert during the disruptive rains, which may be accompanied by isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms," said Mnguni.

He said that the impact of disruptive rain might include localised flooding, minor to major vehicle accidents due to poor driving visibility and slippery road conditions, as well as localised service disruptions due to power failures and other infrastructure damage.

"Be aware that thunderstorms may bring hail, strong winds, heavy rain, or excessive lightning. Don't seek shelter under isolated trees or tall objects; avoid crossing flooded low-lying roads, bridges, and swollen streams, particularly where rising water levels are observed," he said.

Mnguni urged anyone needing to report a fire or rescue emergency to call 107 toll-free or alternatively, dial 012 358 6300/6400.