Free State Health spokesperson Mondli Mvambi confirmed Mpho Pienaar (3) went missing on Friday (13/12) at about 13:00. His distressed parents began searching for him and eventually located him at approximately 19:00 in an unused borehole about 30km northwest of Bloemfontein.

The borehole, about 8 meters deep with a narrow diameter of 200mm, posed significant challenges for rescuers. This was after emergency services personnel were alerted about the incident around 22:00, and a coordinated rescue operation began immediately.

“Search and Rescue South Africa (SARZA) set up a Mobile Command Post upon arrival, with first responders assessing the borehole’s precarious structure and determining the child’s position. The area was secured to prevent further accidents or collapses, and specialised equipment, ropes, and excavation tools were brought in by local farmers, businesses, and community members.”

After hours of intense trenching and delicate maneuvering, Pienaar was successfully extricated. Mvambi said Pienaar was classified as a Priority One case due to suspected neurological damage from the fall.

“The rescue was a multidisciplinary effort involving SARZA Free State, Mangaung Fire & Rescue, EMS Operations, Free State College of Emergency Care, and CASE Excavator Services. We are grateful there were no secondary wall collapses during this delicate operation,” Mvambi said.

Mpho Pienaar was trapped in an unused borehole for hours. Photo: Screenshot 

Pienaar is now receiving specialist neurological care and is expected to make a full recovery.

Meanwhile, Health MEC Monyatso Mahlatsi praised the professionalism and collaboration of emergency services personnel from both the public and private sectors.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg