Search ends in heartbreak as learner’s body recovered at Addington Beach.
Image: Se-Anne Rall/IOL
The body of a missing learner who disappeared at New Beach in Durban on Friday was recovered on Monday, south of Addington Beach.
The body was retrieved from the shoreline and handed over to police. "The family of the deceased has been notified, and arrangements are being made for them to view the body," said the municipality in a statement.
The discovery was made by lifeguards working alongside Metro Police, SAPS Search and Rescue, and the Coastal Patrol Unit.
A search and rescue operation had been underway since Friday afternoon, when a group of school learners from Umsinga reportedly got into difficulty while swimming at the beach.
Lifeguards managed to rescue the majority of the group after spotting them in distress in the water, but the one learner, now deceased, could not be found.
EThekwini mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, commended those involved in the recovery effort.
"We once again convey our condolences to the family of the deceased and hope that they will now be able to find closure."
He also urged caution against swimming at non-bathing beaches and during late hours when lifeguards are off duty.
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