Malipsdrift, Limpopo – A search operation was conducted on Friday, May 30, 2025, for a 17-year-old male who allegedly drowned in the Olifants River on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at approximately 16:30. The incident occurred in the Malipsdrift precinct, prompting a multi-unit response to locate the victim.
Led by Station Commander Lieutenant Colonel Semenya-Fambe, the operation included the Limpopo Water Wing Unit, Social Crime Prevention, the Limpopo Search and Rescue Team, Spiritual Crime Prevention, Young Civilians on Patrol (Y-cop), the Community Policing Forum (CPF), and members of the public. Despite their combined efforts, the victim has not yet been found.
During the operation, Lieutenant Colonel Semenya-Fambe issued an urgent plea to the public, emphasizing the importance of water safety to prevent drowning incidents. She provided the following life-saving guidelines:
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Parental Supervision: Parents should always be aware of their children’s whereabouts.
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Avoid Dangerous Waters: Refrain from swimming in rivers, particularly those known to be infested with crocodiles, such as the Olifants River.
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Do Not Attempt Risky Rescues: Individuals who cannot swim should not attempt to rescue drowning victims.
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Avoid Swimming Under Influence: Never swim while under the influence of alcohol or any other substances.
Additionally, Lieutenant Colonel Semenya-Fambe urged the public to report any criminal activities in the area—including domestic violence, gender-based violence, and femicide (GBVF)—regardless of the perpetrator’s social status.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident and have appealed to anyone with further information to come forward.
