Gauteng teen still missing in Mozambique as family prays for miracle
Rikus Kylander went missing on December 18
Rikus Kylander, 18
Image: SUPPLIED
Exactly a fortnight since Rikus Kylander, 18, disappeared under the water while snorkelling in Mozambique, his heartbroken sister says the entire family is on their knees, asking God over and over again not to let them lose him forever.
“We are holding onto hope and continue to beg God for a miracle to bring Rikus home safely,” Clarise, 24, said of her brother, who went missing on December 18.
Rikus, a matric pupil at Noordheuwel High in Krugersdorp last year, had travelled to Mozambique with a large group of friends to celebrate the end of his school years.
The group of about 12 had arrived just two days before he went missing.
A distraught Clarise said she and her mother and father were still in Mozambique, searching for him.
She described the experience as a very trying time.
"We have no words during this difficult time," she said.
"Our hearts are absolutely shattered, as one can imagine."
She said the support they have received has been amazing and expressed her gratitude.
"We are deeply thankful to the community and to our friends and family for the amazing support, prayers and messages," she said.
"Please don't stop praying for my brother and us."
Rikus was last seen wearing navy blue swimming shorts and snorkeling goggles.
At about 1pm, the large group of friends went snorkeling together and later came out at the same spot.
When they surfaced, they realised Rikus was not there and immediately contacted police and lifeguards.
His mother, Anzél, and father, Donovan, then travelled all the way from Gauteng to look for him.
Renegades Search & Rescue spokesperson Dawn Gounden said police search and rescue teams remain actively deployed from Kosi Bay to Black Rock, including surrounding areas.
"Beach patrols continue, and further drone and sea searches will proceed once conditions allow," Gounden said.
"We thank the Mozambique, Kosi Bay, and Sodwana Bay communities for their ongoing support and vigilance."
Meanwhile, more than R210,000 has already been raised on a BackaBuddy page to support the search efforts.
- Clarise said anyone with information can contact her on 082-659-0238.
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