SAPS divers from the Gauteng Water Policing and Diving Services (WPDS) responded to two water-related incidents across the province, recovering two bodies between December 6 and 7.

On December 6, members of Ekurhuleni WPDS were called at Middle Lake, Benoni, where a body was reported floating.

Assisted by K9 Search and Rescue, they used a raft to get to the victim’s body due to the dangers of the hyacinth causing entanglement.

The victim’s body was recovered and handed to Benoni SAPS members for further investigation.

ALSO READ: Three bodies recovered in separate Gauteng water incidents, says SAPS

On December 7, Sedibeng members were called to Louis Rus, Vanderbijlpark, where they recovered the body of an unknown male from the strong flowing water due to recent and ongoing rain in the canal.

These cases are currently all under investigation by the local SAPS. Individuals with information regarding these incidents are encouraged to contact the relevant SAPS station or Crime Stop at 08600 10111.

“In the wake of the safer festive season campaign and these recent ongoing incidents, compounded by heavy rains which are set to continue, the inherent dangers of rivers and dams demand continued attention,” said spokesperson Warrant Officer Grant Giblin.

He said with warm weather, the rainy season and school holidays, heightened awareness is crucial to mitigate accidents.

“Precautionary measures are emphasised to avert needless loss of life. Individuals venturing onto dams, rivers, or waters for any activity are advised to do so only with a life jacket.”

Giblin urged parents of young children near open waters to educate them about the associated dangers and ensure constant supervision.

This information to parents, guardians or care givers cannot be emphasised enough and attention must be drawn to this.

Individuals intending to traverse rivers are urged to do so exclusively at dedicated bridges, as accidents often stem from victims being swept away by rapid currents.

ALSO READ: Divers recover three bodies in separate Gauteng water incidents

“When there is heavy rain and flooding, low water bridges should be avoided.

“Those engaging in baptism rituals should be cognisant of associated risks, considering the potential contamination of Gauteng rivers like Klip River and Juksei with sewage and chemicals, posing health hazards and many drownings stemming from these activities.”

A meticulous decontamination process is undergone by divers and their equipment after emerging from polluted waters, emphasising the health risks for those inadvertently exposing themselves to these waters.

Witnesses to water-related incidents on dams or rivers are urged to provide multiple landmarks to pinpoint locations for immediate search and rescue efforts.

The public is reminded that fishing with nets is dangerous as well as illegal and constitutes a criminal offence.