The incident unfolded on Thursday (16/10) when the victim and two companions decided to go for a swim at the site, said Free State police spokesperson Sgt Mahlomola Kareli.

Initial reports indicate immediately after entering the water, the individual encountered difficulty and was quickly submerged. 

“The 20-year-old reportedly jumped into the water, was quickly overwhelmed, and tragically drowned,” said Kareli.

The scene of the possible drowning. Photo: SAPS

Officers from Heidedal rapidly secured the scene and immediately contacted the specialised Bloemfontein diving unit to begin searching the deep water. However, the initial search efforts had to be halted late on Thursday evening due to inadequate light conditions.

The operation resumed early Friday morning. The Welkom diving unit later joined the search team.

“Divers worked until approximately 12:00, at which point it was determined that the body may have been carried by currents or rolled to a deeper section of the quarry, estimated to be about 50 m down,” said Kareli.

The police urge the community to refrain from using the quarry for swimming. Photo: SAPS

The police said they’re using every available resource, including extensive collaboration with the private sector and emergency services, to ensure the body is recovered swiftly. This determined effort is aimed at providing closure to the devastated family.

Standard forensic examinations will be performed upon retrieval to verify the official cause of death, said Kareli.

The authorities issued a serious public safety warning, strongly advising the community to refrain from using the quarry for swimming, stressing its perilous depth and the severe danger it poses to life.

• Have a news tip to share? Phone or whatsapp the OFM News Hotline: 066 487 1427.

OFM News cvs