The Johannesburg Flying Squad has urged residents to exercise caution around open water after the body of an unidentified man was recovered from a stream along Westlake Road on Sunday, October 4.

According to the media liaison officer of the Flying Squad, Raymond Sambo, the Johannesburg Water Policing and Diving Services were deployed to Westlake Road following reports of a body in the water.

Sambo said the body was handed over to members of the Florida police at the scene, and an inquest docket and investigations are under way to establish the circumstances surrounding the man’s death.

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Authorities have urged residents to take precautions when near dams, rivers and other bodies of water to prevent unnecessary loss of life.

“Individuals venturing into dams, rivers or water for any activity are advised to do so only with a life jacket,” said Sambo.

Parents and guardians have also been urged to educate children about the dangers of open water and ensure they are supervised when near rivers, streams and dams.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information that could assist the investigation is urged to contact their nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.