On Friday 10 January 2025, a 19-year-old woman was rescued and thanks to a team, consisting of the Police, Disaster Management and other Emergency personnel. The woman was rescued after being swept away by strong river current at the Nkomazi river in Tonga. Reports indicate that the young lady was attempting to cross the overflowing bridge on the road heading to Phiva, when she was washed away but managed to hold on to a reed in the middle of the river.
A Good Samaritan witnessed the incident and promptly informed the Police, and various role players were summoned, including the Search and Rescue team of the SAPS, Disaster Management, and local officials.
A Police Chopper (Helicopter) was also brought in and it assisted a great deal in the rescue operation.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, commended all role players for their swift and heroic efforts in rescuing the woman. The General also issued a cautionary message to the public, urging them to refrain from attempting to cross swollen rivers and dams during this rainy season as it poses a significant risk to their lives. “The woman was fortunate to be alive, but we urge the public not to take chances in these hazardous conditions as they could easily become victims themselves,” warned General Mkhwanazi.
