Family clings to hope as search for missing businessman continues in Limpopo

The family of Nur Ali Nur, a businessman whose vehicle was swept away by an overflowing river last week, expressed a mix of grief and hope as search efforts continue in Tswinga village, Limpopo.

The Somali businessman has been missing since January 17, when the Dzindi River surged, taking his bakkie and leaving his loved ones anxiously awaiting news of his fate.

The Star has learned that rescue teams have successfully retrieved Nur’s vehicle, located approximately 300 meters from where it was last seen.

However, the absence of any sign of Nur during the recovery has left his family yearning for answers. His brother, Abdulahi Roble Jes, serves as the family spokesperson and voiced their unwavering hope, stating to the SABC, “Today his bakkie was recovered, but there is still no sign of my brother. We are hopeful that we will get him back.”

Expressing gratitude towards the government, both local and national, Jes acknowledged the tireless efforts made in the search for Nur. “I want to take this opportunity to thank the South African government, locally and nationally, for how they supported us and how they searched for our brother on a daily basis. We are grateful for that,” he said, highlighting the emotional toll the search has taken on his family.

As the search operations expand, police spokesperson Vuledzani Dathi from the Vhembe district reiterated the commitment to finding Nur. “This is like the beginning of the search; we didn’t find anybody inside the vehicle. So, it means our operation has to continue until we find the bodies,” Dathi stated, ensuring families and the community that they remain dedicated to the mission.

The overflowing Dzindi River has posed significant challenges for rescue teams, with local residents reflecting on the harsh realities of unpredictable flooding in the region. The community has rallied together, providing support for the family while hoping for a miracle amid this tragic situation.

As searches persist along the riverbanks, the family remains composed but resolute, drawing strength from one another and their collective hope for a safe return.

According to IOL, search and rescue teams are still working throughout the province, and the number of fatalities from flooding and drowning incidents connected to heavy rains in Limpopo has increased to 22. Seven people are still unaccounted for.

Meanwhile, Ekurhuleni MMC for Roads and Transport, Andile Mngwevu, was reported missing after the vehicle he was traveling in was swept away by floodwaters in the Chókwè region of southern Mozambique on January 17, 2026. As of January 21, 2026, search and rescue teams, including the SANDF, are searching for Mngwevu.

THE STAR