EC flooding rescuers alarmed by govt’s delayed reporting on discovery of bodies
The provincial government says search operations have concluded for the day (Tuesday), as some communities begin to receive aid and basic services.
Forensic experts and teams from aid organisation Gift of the Givers on the ground as the extensive search operation continues on Tuesday, 24 June 2025, following floods. Picture: Mongezi Koko/ EWN
MTHATHA - Rescue teams in the Eastern Cape have raised the alarm over delayed reporting of discovered bodies by government after recent flooding, saying its frustrating recovery operations.
This comes as the official death toll has risen to 101, with authorities warning the figure is likely to rise.
The provincial government says search operations have concluded for the day, as some communities begin to receive aid and basic services.
Rescue teams have been working around the clock here in Mthatha, as search operations intensify daily in areas ravaged by the recent floods.
The teams have, however, complained that failure to immediately report bodies discovered by locals is delaying the identification process and gravely affecting their operation.
Ninety-four of the 101 confirmed victims have been identified and handed to their loved ones, while seven remain unclaimed.
The head rescuer for aid organisation Gift of the Givers, Siseko Ncakuvana, explained: “They were not reported to SAPS [South African Police Service]. each and every day there's new information that is coming forth. So, the operation won't stop till we find every loved one.”
Meanwhile, humanitarian aid is set to roll out in the Mnquma district this week, as many distressed families wait in hope that their missing loved ones will also be found.