The Department of International Relations and Cooperation says the body of a South African who worked as an English teacher in Myanmar has been found, but they will not release his name.
The person is believed to have lived in the Sky Villa apartment complex in Mandalay, Myanmar, which collapsed when a major earthquake hit the country late last week.
Two more South Africans are believed to be missing, but the department could not confirm this, as South Africa does not officially recognise the country and does not have a mission there.
Twenty-eight-year-old Cowan Reed Titus, from Durban, is said to be among those missing. He was reportedly days away from returning to South Africa when the disaster hit the country. He has not yet been found.
More than 3,000 people have reportedly died after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit Myanmar on 28 March. Hundreds are still missing. Meanwhile, Al Jazeera reported that recent heavy rains are hindering relief efforts, particularly in Mandalay.
ALSO READ: Al Jazeera/Rains add to misery in quake-hit Myanmar as death toll rises to 3,471
Rainfall hits Sagaing on April 6
Rain poured down again in Sagaing at around 6 am on April 6. On the evening of April 5, unseasonal rain fell in Sagaing, Mandalay and Kyaukse towns, causing further difficulties for earthquake victims on the roads. pic.twitter.com/0ErqYjwJih
— Eleven Myanmar (@ElevenMyanmar) April 6, 2025
The South African Department of International Relations said last week that it was aware of 11 citizens that were affected by the quakes. Minister Ronald Lamola said his department is providing those affected with consular assistance.
“South Africa stands in solidarity with the affected communities during this tragic time. The thoughts of the people of South Africa are with the families who have lost loved ones and those who have been injured,” said Lamola.
This article has been updated with additional information.