SEDIBENG.- A search operation, conducted at the Vaal Dam near Oranjeville in the Free State, successfully located a vehicle believed to belong to 70-year-old Stephen Khanye yesterday.

Police said that the operation was initiated following intelligence linking a submerged vehicle to a missing person investigation. The operation was marked by extreme challenges, including adverse weather conditions, strong water currents, and near-zero underwater visibility.

Despite these hazardous circumstances, members of the South African Police Service Diving Unit demonstrated unwavering commitment to their duty.

Submerged vehicle located beneath a bridge

“Sergeant Zwielie Simamane, together with fellow divers from the Bloemfontein-based unit, conducted multiple deep-water search dives under highly dangerous conditions. Through perseverance and disciplined execution of search protocols, the team successfully located the submerged vehicle beneath a bridge in the Oranjeville area after six intensive dives,” police said.

This development follows an earlier incident on April 15, 2026, when the body of a 70-year-old man, Mohole Stephen Khanye, was discovered near the same vicinity after being reported missing in Mafube. The discovery of the vehicle is believed to be linked to that incident, which remains under investigation.

Due to deteriorating weather conditions and safety concerns, recovery operations were temporarily suspended and will resume once conditions improve.

Police said that further updates will be communicated as the operation progresses.