An elderly man who was stranded near Tzaneen Dam for four weeks is recovering at Van Velden Hospital.

Search and Rescue South Africa Limpopo was contacted by the Tzaneen CPF about a vehicle that was stuck near Tzaneen Dam.

“Our team quickly mobilised to respond,” says Louis Menge from Search and Rescue South Africa.

On Friday, SARZA Limpopo; Tzaneen CPF; and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) teamed up to get the vehicle.

“We found an elderly man who had been stranded for four weeks.

“Immediate first aid, food and water were provided to stabilise him. Due to the darkness, we decided to return the next day to complete the recovery. Before leaving, we ensured he had sufficient supplies for the night. The following day, we successfully recovered the vehicle after jump-starting and refuelling it.”

Once the operation was complete, the man was handed over to ER24 for medical attention.

According to Menge, the man had initially gone to the dam to camp and fish.

He was initially camping in a prohibited area and was instructed by the DFFE to move.

Unfortunately, at his new location, his vehicle became stuck. Attempts to seek help from the main road proved futile, and he returned to find much of his camping equipment stolen. Despite these challenges, he managed to survive using the food he had brought for the trip and by collecting rainwater, says Menge.

“This rescue highlighted incredible teamwork, and we are grateful to the Tzaneen CPF, DFFE and ER24 for their support.

“The successful rescue effort underscores the importance of collaboration and preparation for outdoor activities.”