The Mandela family is calling for urgent intervention following the interception of the flotilla vessels trying to carry aid to Gaza.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has issued a call for the immediate release of South African nationals detained by Israeli forces.

Among those confirmed detained are three South African nationals including former President Nelson Mandela’s grandson, Mandla Mandela, acclaimed author Zukiswa Wanner and activist Reaz Moola.

Mandela family member Ndileka Mandela says, “No one can contact any of the people that have been intercepted because they don’t have phones. They were asked to throw their phones in the water in one video I saw. So, we have not been able to communicate with Mandla. For me, I would sleep easy if I could have what we call proof of life, to see him and speak to him. Right now, it’s been unsettling because we have not been able to speak to him. We are praying as a family that he would be safe.”

Flotilla | Calls for release of SA nationals abducted by Israel