The search for seven-year-old Sqalo Phumelela Ntlooa came to a heartbreaking end on Monday afternoon when his body was discovered in a river in Cato Manor, KwaZulu-Natal. The young boy, a grade two learner at Nsimbini Primary School, had gone missing the previous evening during a hunting trip with friends.
Sqalo was last seen on Sunday evening, when he ventured into the Cato Manor Forest with three friends and several dogs. According to reports, the group was engaged in a hunting activity when Sqalo became separated and failed to return home. Concerned community members alerted authorities when he could not be found, sparking a widespread search.
On Monday morning, the Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) deployed its helicopter to assist in the search. The aerial operation began at around 10:00 AM and lasted approximately three and a half hours. During the search, RUSA personnel spotted a pile of clothing along the riverbank, which was later confirmed to belong to Sqalo. This vital clue led the search team to focus their efforts along the river.
As the helicopter crew followed the river’s path, they identified a plunge pool that seemed like a possible drowning site. Their suspicions were confirmed shortly after, when Sqalo’s lifeless body was discovered at the bottom of the pool. A local community member bravely retrieved the body, bringing the intense search to a somber close at approximately 14:05.
Authorities, including members of the Cato Manor South African Police Service (SAPS), were present at the scene and are continuing with investigations. The circumstances surrounding the boy’s death remain under investigation, although initial reports suggest that drowning is the most likely cause.
The tragic incident has sent waves of grief through the Cato Manor community, especially among the learners and staff of Nsimbini Primary School. Local residents and authorities are calling for increased awareness and safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
This unfortunate event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers children can face when exploring natural environments unsupervised. As the community mourns the loss of a young life, many are reflecting on the importance of safety, vigilance, and quick action in such situations.
Sqalo Phumelela Ntlooa’s untimely death has left a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who knew him. As investigations continue, the community remains united in grief, offering support to the family during this incredibly difficult time.
