AN UMHLANGA attorney has honoured a Marshall Security officer whose swift and selfless actions helped save the life of a young boy who nearly drowned in a swimming pool at a holiday complex.
Umesh Jivan, of Jivan & Co. Inc, rewarded Ntokozo “Happy” Sambo for his heroic response to an emergency that unfolded on November 21.
Sambo was on routine patrol when he heard desperate screams for help coming from an upper floor of the complex. A woman was pointing down towards the pool area, alerting him to a child in danger.
Without hesitation, Sambo and his partner rushed to assist. His partner helped him climb over a wall fitted with electric fencing and was shocked in the process. Sambo managed to get over the wall and found the young boy submerged.
He immediately jumped into the water, pulled the child out and began performing CPR.
Recalling the incident in a video, Sambo said everything happened in seconds.
“I never hesitated. The minute the person shouted, my adrenaline just took over, and I got shocked by the fence. I didn’t even have time to look at the pool. I just dove inside, I did CPR until first aid got there, and the boy made it,” he said.
Reflecting on the outcome of the incident, Jivan said the child’s rescue left a lasting impression on him.
“I was joyful of his rescue by Ntokozo as the boy has his entire life to cherish because of the bravery and skills of Ntokozo who has lived up to his nickname of ‘Happy’.”
Jivan also explained that he decided to step forward after noticing a lack of recognition for Sambo’s actions.
“After the lapse of about two weeks, I noticed that no one from the hospitality or restaurants had given any offer of gratitude to Ntokozo. I decided to do so, even though I’m based in the business precinct of uMhlanga Ridge.”
As a token of appreciation, Sambo received a perfume, a letter of commendation and a cash reward.
A humble Sambo told Northglen News that he never expected recognition for what he believed was his duty.
“This just made my day. I didn’t expect to be rewarded at all as my only thought was about saving the young boy. It was a beautiful gesture from Mr Jivan and I appreciate him for doing that,” he said.
Jivan hopes his gesture will encourage others to acknowledge acts of courage within their communities.
“By rewarding Ntokozo I hope that in future such brave deeds are recognised and rewarded by all communities and organisations.