A video that recently circulated on social media shows a fisherman who got stuck on a rock in the Nkomazi River in Komatipoort after heavy floods.

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Following allegations that the police refused to help, spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli clarified that SAPS, other law enforcement officials and emergency medical services persistently attempted to help the man, who refused their assistance.

“An EMS helicopter was dispatched to help search for him on January 7, and our team members also attempted to rescue him. Unfortunately, he evaded rescue efforts, demonstrating a clear unwillingness to leave the area,” Mdhluli said.

The following day, the team continued with their mission and took him to safety.

The man had reportedly adopted the rocks in the river as a regular fishing spot, despite the inherent dangers posed by crocodiles and hippos. Mdluli added that he was previously noted during the search operation for two SANDF soldiers whose vehicle was swept away by the flooding river on December 25. During a TV interview with the SAPS representative, the fisherman was observed in the background, continuing with his fishing activities.

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The acting provincial commissioner of the SAPS, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, emphasised that it is important to recognise that public safety is a priority for the SAPS and law enforcement agencies in general. “The SAPS remains devoted to protecting the lives of all individuals, including those who may not fully understand the risks they are taking,” said the general.

“We urge the community to refrain from spreading misinformation or making irresponsible comments on social media that could incite unnecessary alarm or distress among the public. Comments that provoke emotional reactions while causing irreparable damage to others only serve to undermine the efforts of [those] who are working diligently to ensure the safety of our communities.”