According to Minority Front Councillor Patrick Pillay, Mr Tony Pillay, known to close friends and family as Moona Bai and a resident of Rietriver had a close shave with death when he slipped in the Ohlanga river whilst crossing. When news spread about the apparent washing away of Mr Tony Pillay, the closely knitted community of Rietriver immediately swung into action and converged onto the scene.

Mr Louie Chetty contacted Councillor Patrick Pillay who arrived immediately at the scene and other authorities in an attempt to save Mr Pillay. In the meantime, Louie’s son Elton Chetty and his colleague decided to swim downstream trying to locate Mt Tony Pillay. During the communities attempt to locate Mr Tony Pillay in the river, word arrived that Moona Bai (Mr Tony Pillay) has arrived home and was drenched but okay.

When Mr Tony Pillay was contacted after his ordeal. He said that during his traumatic experience, God has saved him. Whilst trying to save himself when he was washed away, he remembered the wise words of his late father who was also a life saver, that whenever you are in trouble in water, remain calm and try to stay afloat without panicking.

I am happy to be alive to see my precious wife, said Mr Pillay. Mrs Sheila Pillay, the wife said that when she received news of her husband’s drowning, she became shocked. I prayed for my husband to survive and the greatest news of him coming home was an unbelievable shock.

Mr Louie Chetty, a resident in Rietriver said that Mr Tony Pillay was a very popular person in the area. He have a very jovial attitude and is always smiling. News of his drowning was received like a shock wave in the community and all of us responded without hesitation. We are very happy that he is alive.

Minority Front Councillor Patrick Pillay said that when he received the urgent call, he immediately responded. When I arrived at the river site, many people was around trying to find Mr Tony Pillay. The presence of these people gave a clear indication of his popularity. I give full credit to Mt Elton Chetty and his friends who without fear dived into the river seeking Mr Tony Pillay. I am glad that this story had a happy ending. The MF is proud of Mr Tony Pillay.