Mayor offers support after tragic drowning incident

LIMPOPO – The lifeless body of a 34-year-old man was pulled from the Ngwaditse River on Monday after he drowned on Friday afternoon.

The community of Mosate and Sekgakgapheng watched helplessly as the Mahwelereng police recovered Lesiba Phillip Seanego’s body from the river.

It is alleged that Seanego was swept away by the current after he fell into the river while he and two friends were crossing the bridge.

An immediate search was launched by divers from the police and Anglo American’s Mogalakwena Platinum Mine.

The Mogalakwena fire and rescue team along with the community assisted in the search, but due to the heavy rainfall on Friday, Seanego’s body was only recovered on Monday afternoon.

Mayor Parks Sebatjane, Chief Whip, Staff Tsebe and Ward Councillor Lesiba Mashala visited the scene of the incident as well as the Seanego family on Monday morning to offer their condolences to the family and community.

After the body was recovered, Sebatjane addressed the community and said: “We empathise with the Seanego family during this tragic time, but we must thank God the body was recovered.

“We also thank the community who worked tirelessly with the search team, they played an important role. Their participation affirms unity and it is a true example of Ubuntu. It proves that united we stand, divided we fall.”

He urged the community to be vigilant when walking close to raging storm water and encouraged parents to warn their children not to cross or play near rivers. He further advised the elders to follow suit as it is not safe to cross the river after heavy rain and he advised the community to always be aware of the strong currents.

Sebatjane urged the community to avoid, as far possible, living below flood lines as these houses are at constant risk during rainy seasons. He called on everyone to support the family during this difficult time.