Resulting from a multi-disciplinary search and rescue operation in Uitkyk Village, members from the National Sea Rescue Institude (NSRI) and Strategic Responce Unit (SRU), Police Air Wing, Divers and community members, the body of a 9-year old minor was recovered from a stream, flowing into the nearby river, which eventually runs into the Molatedi Dam.

Late Friday afternoon, 7 January 2022, the child and his friends were playing in the stream near the Village, when the victim jumped in to swim, but was swept away by the fast current into the river. The victim’s friends alerted the victim’s parents, who immediately informed Madikwe police. A search was immediately conducted, but unfortunately, as it was getting dark, had to be discontinued, but resumed early on Saturday morning.

All the mentioned role players were activated and Hartbeespoortdam NSRI divers and SRU offered their assistance.  The search continued until around 17:30 when members from the police Air Wing spotted the body of the child stuck in the debris.  NSRI and SRU from Hartbeespoortdam removed the body of the child from the river.

Brigadier Reginah Ntoagae has commended the Role players as well as the community for their efforts in ensuring that the body of the child was found, shortly after being reported missing.  She conveyed her condolences to the family of the deceased.

Source: South African Police Service