TWO BODIES RECOVERED FROM WATER SYSTEMS IN WESTONARIA AND SOWETO
Separate drowning incidents in Bekkersdal and Kliptown leave communities in shock as police open inquest dockets
WESTONARIA / SOWETO – Two men have been found dead in separate drowning incidents in Bekkersdal and Kliptown this week, with police recovering bodies from a stormwater system and a dam in two separate operations.
On Tuesday, August 25, at around 16:00, Johannesburg Water Policing and Diving Services officers responded to a drowning incident near the corner of Matsise Street, close to the Mandela section in Bekkersdal, Westonaria. The body of an unknown adult male was discovered in a stormwater system and was recovered and handed over to Bekkersdal SAPS officers.
Just two days later, on Thursday, August 27, at approximately 15:00, Johannesburg Flying Squad Water Policing and Diving Services officers were called to a drowning incident in Kliptown, Soweto, near Devland. The body of another adult male was found in the Dumping Site dam. The body, which was in an advanced state of decomposition, was retrieved using a Stokes basket and handed over to Kliptown SAPS officers.
POLICE OPEN INQUEST DOCKETS
Inquest dockets have been opened in both cases to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the two men. The identities of the deceased have not yet been established, and investigations are continuing.
The recovery of the bodies highlights the ongoing risks associated with open water bodies in the region, particularly as the summer season approaches and water levels in dams, rivers and stormwater systems fluctuate.
POLICE URGE CAUTION AROUND OPEN WATER
Gauteng police have called on community members to exercise caution around open water bodies to prevent further loss of life.
“Anyone using dams, rivers, or other open water sources is encouraged to wear a life jacket,” police said in a statement. “Parents and guardians are also urged to warn children about the dangers of open water”.
The warnings come as the region prepares for the warmer months, when residents are more likely to seek relief near water sources, often unaware of the hidden dangers posed by strong currents, submerged debris and sudden changes in water depth.
