LIMPOPO – The Apel police have launched an intensive search for a 31-year-old man who was swept away by floodwaters in Atok on Monday night (December 1).

The incident happened at about 21:30 when a vehicle attempted to cross a river swollen by heavy rainfall.

According to police, strong currents overturned the vehicle and dragged it downstream.

“One passenger managed to escape and was taken to a local clinic for treatment before being discharged. The driver did not resurface,” said the Limpopo police spokesperson, Col Malesela Ledwaba.

He added that a large multi-disciplinary search operation was activated immediately, involving Apel SAPS, the SAPS Search and Rescue Unit, EMS personnel, mine rescue teams, local security services and drone pilots who assisted with aerial searches.

“The vehicle was located during the night, but rising water levels and dangerous conditions made it impossible for rescuers to reach it. The operation was suspended for safety reasons and resumed at first light on Tuesday,” he said.

The vehicle was successfully recovered later that morning, however, the driver remained missing.

“Search teams continued combing the riverbanks and surrounding areas throughout the day as bad weather persisted,” Ledwaba said.

The provincial police commissioner, Lt Gen Thembi Hadebe thanked all responders for their efforts under extremely challenging conditions and urged the public to avoid river crossings during heavy rain.

“We extend our gratitude to every stakeholder who has been working tirelessly since this tragic incident. We urge community members to exercise extreme caution when approaching or attempting to cross rivers, particularly during heavy rainfall and flooding,” she said.

The search for the missing man and police investigations continue.