Clinton Moonsamy, 32, has been missing for 49 days from Shakaskraal. His sister Rozanne Moonsamy, his only remaining family member, refuses to give up the search despite rumours and potential tragic developments.
Ground Zero Search and Rescue is assisting with the investigation after possible sightings in Durban North.
Clinton went missing on February 2 after he visited his 29-year-old sister at work. He is her only family member after their parents and grandmother died a few years ago.
Rozanne said she shared a special bond with him.
“We are dependent on each other. From meeting a minimum of twice to thrice a week, to not meeting him at all has taken a toll on my life. Nothing is the same. I am angry at society because of the rumors going around that he was murdered. No one can show me where he is, or tell us who took him. I cannot eat. I cannot sleep. I just put on my strong face after breaking down and go on with my day. I miss my brother so much.
“Even though he is three years older than me, I see him as my child. He is my confidant and my go-to person. There is nothing we can't talk about to each other. Now, not being able to see him, I feel like I'm alone."
They lost their parents at a young age and were separated but eventually, as they grew up, their bond strengthened.
“One cannot do without the other. I am broken and crushed. I still put on my armour daily and continue with my role as a mother, wife and leader but I'm shattered on the inside."
She said she would not give up searching for her sibling.
“I'm searching physically. I have also asked Ground Zero Search and Rescue to assist. They have been searching all of the leads given to them too. I've been on social media every day since he was confirmed missing, trying to reach out to someone who may know something. My brother has never gone more than four days without letting me know where he is. I am worried and scared for him."
Denzil Govender, from Ground Zero Search and Rescue, said: “We had a tip-off last week that he was spotted in Durban North. Someone in the area called us and when we went to the area, a lot of people confirmed they had also seen him.
“However, a few days ago, Umhlali SAPS told us they had found a body in the Umhlali river. They asked Rozanne to identify the body but she opted out because the body was severely decomposed and bloated due to being in water. Instead we are now waiting for DNA results to come back, to tell us if the body is Clinton or not."