Four people died over the weekend after their car was swept away by a flooded stream in Makotopong Village outside Polokwane, Limpopo.
The incident happened on Saturday, 7 March, when the victims reportedly tried to cross a flooded low-lying bridge.
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Their vehicle was dragged away by the strong current. Police divers and Polokwane Municipality fire and rescue teams later recovered the bodies of two men and two women from the water.
The police have opened inquest dockets to investigate the deaths. Fortunately, one other passenger in the vehicle survived the incident.
Limpopo Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA) MEC Basikopo Makamu expressed deep sadness over the tragedy.
Makamu said the incident is a painful reminder for communities to be careful during heavy rains.
“We call on residents of Limpopo to remain vigilant and observe all safety measures put in place by government.”
“People must avoid crossing flooded rivers and low-lying bridges,” he said.
He also sent condolences to the victims’ families.
“We extend our sincere condolences to the families who lost their loved ones during this unfortunate incident,” said the MEC.
Limpopo has been battered by heavy rains in recent months. The flooding has damaged homes, roads and bridges across the province.
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CoGHSTA said it continues to work with other departments, including social development, the SAPS and municipalities, to coordinate search, rescue and relief efforts.
Residents have been urged to put their safety first and avoid flooded areas during storms.
