Maun Police Station Commander Joseph Lepodise says search teams are not losing hope in the ongoing operation to locate a 12-year-old boy feared to have been attacked by a crocodile yesterday.
The child, whose name has not yet been released, reportedly disappeared while swimming near the Thamalakane River on Wednesday afternoon. Witnesses told Police that the boy was last seen in the water before suddenly vanishing, prompting fears of a crocodile attack.
Lepodise confirmed this morning that the search resumed at first light and will continue for as long as necessary.
“We are not losing hope. Our teams are still on the ground, and the search will continue late into the evening,” he said. “If we do not find him today, we will resume again tomorrow. We are committed to exhausting all efforts.”
The search team includes police officers, the Botswana Defence Force (BDF), the District Council’s Disaster Management Unit, and local divers familiar with the river system. Community members have also joined in, providing information and support.
Lepodise urged the public to remain calm but cautious, especially when near water bodies known to have crocodiles.
As the search enters its second day, the boy’s family is being assisted by both the police and social workers as they await developments.
More updates are expected as the operation continues.
