Vaal
1Min
South Africa
Jan 24, 2026
The body of 17-year-old matric pupil Thomas Sithole was recovered after a two-day search following his disappearance during a private boat cruise on the Vaal River.
Hoërskool Driehoek learner Thomas Sithole, who went missing during a private boat cruise on the Vaal River earlier this month, will be laid to rest on Saturday.
The 17-year-old matric pupil had been enjoying a cruise with friends when he disappeared under unclear circumstances. According to accounts from those who were with him, they only realised that Sithole was missing after the boat cruise had already ended.
A search operation was launched shortly after his disappearance, with emergency services and volunteers combing the area. Sithole’s body was recovered after a two-day search.
Tributes have continued to pour in, describing Sithole as a vibrant and promising young learner with a bright future ahead of him.
No arrests have been made yet and the police are still investigating.
