The community of Diamanthoogte in the Free State has raised concerns over a stormwater canal system that hasn’t been fenced for years after another child drowned there.

A boy (4) drowned in the canal behind his family home in Diamanthoogte, Koffiefontein, on Tuesday (2/1).

Police spokesperson Mahlomola Kareli said local police were summoned to the scene at around 09:00. They were informed the boy was missing after falling in the water.

The stormwater canal that has remained unfenced for years concerns the community of Diamanthoogte. Picture supplied

The boy was playing with his friends. They informed his parents and neighbours. Kareli said the community started searching the canal for him while the police diving unit was still on its way. 

They found his body 2 km away from where he landed in the water. He was certified dead by paramedics. Police opened an inquest for further investigation. 

Resident Ben Smith raised concerns about the dangers posed by the canal to children and residents. “I think this is the third or fourth child in three years. (It was) fenced before. I think it's been ten years since it hasn’t been fenced because the community grew and the fence was taken down. 

“While old people and the municipality are still trying to get the bylaws in order, innocent people are dying,” said Ben Smith.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg/mc