Matatiele hit by tragedy as two women drown in Umzimvubu river
In the wake of incessant heavy rains wreaking havoc across KwaZulu Natal and O.R. Tambo in the Eastern Cape, tragic incidents continue to unfold in Matatiele. The Station Commander of the Maluti Police station, Colonel Mdluli, reported the drowning of two women, aged 45 and 50, at the Umzimvubu river in Matatiele on Monday (08/01/2024. The victims, hailing from Magasela Location, lost their lives while attempting to cross the river on their way back home from a neighbouring village. Despite the recovery of their belongings near the river, the search for their bodies is ongoing.
Colonel Mdluli expressed concern over the rising number of drownings due to floods, emphasizing the challenges posed by remote locations and urging prompt reporting of incidents. The police have activated search and rescue teams, including K9 units, but acknowledge the difficulties in these efforts.
“We request people and community leaders to report these incidents on time. In case of anyone being drowned, please report to the nearest police station immediately,” urged Colonel Mdluli. She highlighted the impact of heavy rains in upper areas, emphasizing the potential for a significant disaster in downstream regions like Matatiele. The police commander stressed the importance of community awareness regarding the dangers of crossing rivers, even in familiar areas, and urged caution around low water bridges.
Colonel Mdluli concluded, “This is to sensitize our communities about the importance of observing low water bridges and crossing rivers in places not designated for crossing, even if they are used to crossing.”
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