Ladysmith death toll rises to 21

Heavy rains caused the Bell-Spruit River to burst its banks on Christmas Eve, washing away several vehicles and a house.

Over 60 K9 search and rescue personnel from the police and private companies have been carrying out a recovery operation in the area.

Police spokesperson, Robert Netshiunda says the search and rescue officials will continue looking for four more people.

"The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Emergency Services, in conjunction with various government and private institutions, continued the search mission following the recent Ladysmith floods, and as of Friday, a total of 21 bodies have been recovered.

"An unconfirmed number of four victims are still outstanding, and to continue with the search operations, the Mobile Command Post will move further downstream today (Saturday) to facilitate the deployment of rescuers."

KZN Cogta spokesperson, Siboniso Mngadi has urged those who have missing loved ones to go to their nearest police station as soon as possible.

"The Kwazulu Natal MEC for Cooperative Government and Traditional Affairs Bongiwe-Sithole-Moloi has also extended condolences to the grieving families.  

"While this is an immense tragedy, we do hope that these discoveries will also bring comfort to the families who have lost their loved ones, as now they can proceed with the necessary arrangements for funeral arrangements and find closure in this tragic incident."

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