Body of missing teen found near river

The body of a 13-year-old boy, reported missing by his grandmother in Sterkspruit, Eastern Cape, on November 7, has been found on the banks of the Silindini River.

Police had earlier this month called on the community to help find the youngster from New Rest.

Asithandile Hoko had left home on November 4 and was reported missing three days later, when he failed to return home to his grandmother after visiting his mother in Thuntubele township a few days earlier.

Police spokesperson Captain Ursula Roelofse said the boy had to cross the Ezingwenyameni River on his way to Thuntubele, and again on his way back.

Police divers conducted searches in and around the river, but there was no sign of Asithandile until this week.

“The SAPS would like to thank every police member and the community that formed part of the team that searched for Asithandile.

“His body was found on the banks of the Silindini River.

“Our condolences to the family.”