SEBOKENG.- An investigation is underway after a young girl (9) drowned near the Total Garage in Waterdal, opposite Boiketlong, on February 12.

It is alleged that the deceased was swimming together with her female friends, one of whom is 11-years-old and the other who is 12-years-old, at the quarry.

“The other two minors realised that the deceased was in trouble, and they fled the scene to ask for help. The deceased was identified on the scene, declared dead, and sent to the Forensic Pathology Services for further investigation,” said police spokesperson, Constable Mampho Mahlomola.

The police are pleading with parents to warn their children about the dangers of swimming at dams, especially:

– Low-head dams: Creates powerful, inescapable currents and hydraulics (sometimes called “boiling” or “drowning machines”) that can trap even strong swimmers. The force of the water flowing over and under structures is immense.

– Hidden obstacles and debris: The water often contains submerged debris, such as trees, rocks, and trash, which are not visible from the surface and can cause severe injury or trap a swimmer.

– Unpredictable water flow and levels: Water levels and flow can change rapidly and without warning, due to dam operations or weather events, creating sudden and dangerous conditions.

– Contaminated water: Water in unmanaged dams or abandoned mining excavations can be contaminated with bacteria, chemicals, or toxins (like blue-green algae), leading to various illnesses, infections, and skin rashes.

– No supervision or emergency services: These locations lack lifeguards, emergency equipment, and are often in isolated areas, meaning help is far away in an emergency.