The search for a Hyundai i10 and its two occupants, which was allegedly swept off a low-water bridge into the Hennops River, has come to an end following a coordinated recovery operation by police divers and emergency services.

“The incident is believed to have occurred at around 05:40 on Sunday morning at the low-water bridge at the corner of End and Rabie streets in Centurion,” said SAPS emergency services spokesperson, Warrant Officer Grant Giblin.

He added that Tshwane Water Police Diving Services (WPDS) and emergency services were alerted later on Sunday evening after the vehicle’s tracking device reportedly stopped transmitting at a location near the river.

Also read: Police divers recover two bodies in two separate incidents

“A full-scale search was launched early on Monday morning, beginning at the suspected point of entry and extending downstream along the Hennops River.

“Despite challenging conditions and fast-flowing water, teams continued their efforts with assistance from a SAPS helicopter.

“The vehicle could not be located on Monday and the search resumed again on Tuesday morning,” said Giblin.

He added that the recovery operation involved WPDS, Search and Rescue South Africa (SARZA), Gauteng Emergency Medical Services (GEMS) and the Fire Brigade.

“Divers eventually located the vehicle approximately 400 metres downstream from the point of entry, submerged under about one metre of water.”

Also read: SAPS divers recover two bodies in separate Thembisa incidents

Using high-angle rope techniques, the vehicle was secured and winched closer to the riverbank. During the recovery, it was discovered that both occupants’ bodies were still inside the vehicle.

The matter is currently under investigation by the Lyttleton SAPS.

Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact their nearest SAPS station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.