Body recovered from river in Weltevreden Park
Authorites urge the public to exercise caution around open water sources, especially in rivers and dams.
A 29-year-old man’s body was recovered from a river in Weltevreden Park yesterday afternoon, July 9, after police responded to a reported drowning.
According to Gauteng Police Emergency Services spokesperson Raymond Sambo, members of the Johannesburg Water Policing and Diving Services were dispatched to the scene at the corner of 9th Avenue and Rugby Street at about 12:50.
“On arrival, police divers found the man’s body floating at the edge of the river embankment. A Stokes basket was used to safely retrieve the body from the water before it was handed over to members of the police for further processing,” said Sambo.
An inquest docket has been opened, and the circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation.
Sambo urged residents to exercise extreme caution around rivers, dams and other open bodies of water. He advised anyone entering the water for recreational or other activities to wear an approved life jacket to reduce the risk of drowning.
Parents and guardians were also reminded to educate children about the dangers associated with open water and to ensure they are constantly supervised when near rivers, dams or swimming areas.
Police have appealed to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has information that could assist the investigation to contact their nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
