For seven days now, tens of thousands of volunteers from across the North Caucasus have been searching for little hero Khizir Derbichev, who was swept away by the powerful current of the Sunzha River near the village of Yandare in the Nazran District of Ingushetia. Despite fatigue, icy water, and challenging conditions, the men are carefully surveying the underwater area and the shoreline, searching under rocks, trees, and slabs.

According to the regional Ministry of Emergency Situations, on June 20, work was conducted to inspect the riverbed and coastal areas. Divers made 15 dives. Aerial reconnaissance of the entire Sunzha coastline was also conducted using drones.

According to Ingushetia's Head of State, Makhmud-Ali Kalimatov, during the search operation, local residents and businessmen were found discharging untreated sewage into the river.

"Such behavior is a disregard for basic morality and the law. All those involved in the illegal discharge of wastewater will be identified. Those responsible will be held accountable in accordance with the law," he stated.

Services from the republic have joined the search operation, which has expanded to Chechnya.

The search for the boy has generated widespread attention not only throughout Russia but also in international media. Journalists and bloggers emphasize the unity of the residents of Ingushetia and the North Caucasus.

The tragedy occurred on June 15 on the banks of the Sunzha River. Khizir was relaxing with friends when one of the boys fell into the raging current. The child managed to cling to a branch, but was unable to escape on his own. Khizir jumped into the water to help his friend. Adults soon arrived and rescued the boy, but Khizir himself was swept away by the rapid current.