Tragic end to search for missing 13-year-old boy in Juba

2026-03-12 - 15:08

The search for a 13-year-old boy who went missing earlier this week in Juba has ended in tragedy after his belongings were discovered along the River Nile, leading family members to believe he drowned. Manyinyen Meen Dhal, the son of Malith Barnaba Dhiath, was reported missing on March 10, 2026, at around 4:00 PM from the Giada Residential Area. According to information provided by the family, eyewitnesses later reported seeing the boy at around 6:00 PM the same day near the River Nile between the old and new bridges in Lologo One. He was reportedly in the company of two other boys. The family says the child went to the riverside where the incident is believed to have occurred. On the morning of March 12 at around 11:00 AM, the boy’s clothes, sandals, and school shoes—which he had earlier taken to be repaired—were found on the riverbank. The family identified the items as belonging to Manyinyen. Witnesses at the scene claimed the boy was pulled into the water while near the river. A fisherman who attempted to rescue him was also reportedly dragged toward the water before managing to escape back to the riverbank. The boy’s body has not yet been recovered, but the family believes he drowned in the river. Earlier this week, the family had appealed to the public for help in locating the missing child. Following the discovery of his belongings, they have now informed the public that the search efforts have come to an end. The family has thanked members of the public who assisted in sharing information and supporting them during the search. Authorities and community members are urging parents and guardians to exercise caution and closely monitor children around riverbanks and other potentially dangerous areas.