Africa-Press – Eswatini. Mliba Police have mounted a vigorous search operation along the Nkomazi River after a 32-year-old man from Boane, Mozambique, was swept away while doing laundry with friends.
The incident occurred on 5 December 2025 at around 1:00pm.
According to police reports, the man attempted to go deeper into the river to collect water using a container, which was suddenly pulled away by the current. As he tried to retrieve it, the force of the water overwhelmed him. Friends who witnessed the struggle quickly alerted authorities.
A Royal Eswatini Police Service scuba diving team immediately launched a Search and Rescue mission. Despite their determined efforts, nightfall forced the suspension of the operation. Early today, REPS scuba divers, supported by the Fire and Emergency Services Department, resumed the search with renewed commitment to locating the missing man.
In a separate tragedy on the same day at around 12:00pm, two young boys aged 14 and 7 from Ngcakane in Mankayane drowned while swimming at Emadvwaleni stream. Reports indicate that the boys were caught off-guard by a sudden rise in water current. They were swept away and later found near a waterfall, despite desperate efforts from community members and police responders.
These heartbreaking incidents come as the country enters the busy holiday period, prompting the Royal Eswatini Police Service to issue a strong reminder to parents and guardians: constant vigilance saves lives.
Rivers, streams, and other natural water bodies can turn dangerous instantly, especially for children. The police urge families to ensure that children never approach or swim in such areas unsupervised. Even confident swimmers can be overpowered by unexpected currents, slippery surfaces, or shifting water levels.
The REPS continues to emphasise the importance of:
– Close and constant supervision of children near water
– Educating young people about water dangers
– Avoiding risky swimming spots, especially after rains
– Responding immediately to any signs of distress
As rescue teams work tirelessly to bring closure to affected families, authorities extend heartfelt condolences and encourage the nation to prioritise safety throughout the festive season.
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