By News Desk

Tributes have been paid to a pilot who lost his life trying to save two children from a waterfall in Wales.

27-year-old Mohananeethan Muruganantharaja bravely jumped in to rescue his two young nieces at the Sgwd Y Pannwr falls in Bannau Brycheiniog, also known as Brecon Beacons National Park.

On Friday, 1 September, police were called at 4.40pm to a report that a man had gone in the water to rescue the children but did not return. A multi-agency response, which included the air ambulance, fire service and mountain rescue, were deployed to search for him.

His body was discovered in the water just after 7pm with the assistance of an underwater camera, as reported by the authorities. However, it couldn’t be retrieved on the same evening due to challenging conditions at the location, prompting the deployment of divers the following morning. The family of Muruganantharaja is currently receiving support from specialist officers.

In a statement, Muruganantharaja’s badminton club in Swansea said in a tribute: “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Mohan. He touched the lives of so many and brought warmth and love to all who knew him with his never ending smile.

“Thank you for your love, support, and compassion during this challenging time.”

One of his nieces recalled the incident and said: “My uncle came in to pull us out one by one.” While he was able to rescue both the children from the fast-moving river, he was unable to get out himself after being caught in the strong current.

Although he held qualifications as a pilot, Muruganantharaja was employed at an off-licence in Swansea, owing to his commitment to the welfare of his family. In the wake of his tragic passing, his grieving family is advocating for the installation of more conspicuous warning signs at the waterfall, stressing the importance of reminding visitors about the potential hazards in the area. Although there are signs in the area, the family felt that they were insufficient.