The head of the Ugu District Disaster Management Unit, Thandeka Mkhize, confirmed that the official death toll stood at four, with at least eight people still unaccounted for. “This is a tragedy of immense proportions for a small town that depends on tourism,” Mkhize said in a statement from the disaster coordination centre. “Our initial response was severely compromised because we did not have enough swift-water rescue teams or specialised equipment. We are deeply grateful to the fishermen and private boat owners who acted with extraordinary bravery. Without them, the loss of life would almost certainly have been higher.” Mkhize said that search operations would continue through the night, with the South African National Defence Force providing helicopters and ground support from Friday morning. She also confirmed that displaced residents and tourists – estimated at more than 80 people – are being housed in three temporary shelters, with food and blankets supplied by local charities. Property damage is extensive, with dozens of homes, holiday flats, restaurants, and a beachfront hotel reported to be structurally compromised. Power and water supply have been cut to large sections of the town, and several roads remain impassable due to mudslides and collapsed stormwater pipes. Local authorities have appealed for donations of bottled water, non-perishable food, blankets, and clothing. A disaster relief fund has been opened at the Margate municipal office. The investigation into Ray Ndlovu Municipal Contractors is expected to examine maintenance logs, inspection records, and the design capacity of the stormwater system. Criminal charges have not been ruled out, a source close to the investigation told reporters. “We will get answers,” Mkhize said. “Right now, our priority is finding the missing and caring for the living. But accountability will follow.” Paraphrase this paragraph

Thandeka Mkhize, head of the Ugu District Disaster Management Unit, confirmed a death toll of four and eight missing, describing the event as a tragedy for the tourism-dependent town. She stated the initial response was hindered by a lack of swift-water rescue teams, expressing deep gratitude to local fishermen whose bravery prevented further loss of life. Search operations will continue with SANDF support, and over 80 displaced residents and tourists are housed in temporary shelters. The town faces extensive property damage, including compromised buildings, power/water outages, and impassable roads. Authorities have appealed for donations and established a disaster relief fund. An investigation into Ray Ndlovu Municipal Contractors is underway, examining maintenance and design, with criminal charges not ruled out, as Mkhize vowed accountability. 3 done, 2 left today. You're making progress.