Teen’s drowning sparks safety calls
There have been several drownings along the South Coast since mid November, as warmer weather draws people to unpatrolled beaches.
THE search for the body of 17-year-old Phiwokuhle Shandu of Mid Illovo spanned the coast from The Bluff to Amanzimtoti after he disappeared under the water at Brighton Beach on November 19 but has been suspended.
Also read: Young boy drowns at Coastal Lounge Beach
Phiwokuhle’s sister, Londi, said that the family has kept vigil near the ocean, hoping his body will surface.
“His friends said he asked them to film him swimming. While the video was being taken, a large wave swept him away. Another swimmer attempted to rescue him but grew too exhausted to continue,” Londi said.
Tragically, Phiwokuhle’s body sank before help could reach him. Search operations by the SAPS Search and Rescue Unit began immediately after the incident and continued for five days, according to spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda. The search has since been suspended pending new developments.
This tragedy is one of several drownings along South Coast beaches in November. Lifesaving South Africa (LSA) president Dhaya Sewduth expressed concern, citing warmer weather drawing more people to unpatrolled beaches.
“People need to swim only where and when lifeguards are on duty, stay between the red and yellow flags and heed lifeguards’ instructions. Children must never be left unsupervised near water,” said Sewduth.
LSA called on government and community leaders to intensify water safety education, while Dawn Gounden of Renegades Search and Rescue highlighted the critical need for swimming lessons and water safety awareness, particularly in underserved communities.
“Poor swimming skills, lack of supervision and inadequate water safety education create a deadly combination. Addressing these gaps can help prevent such tragedies,” said Gounden.
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