With heavy rains continuing to saturate the region, acting provincial commissioner Maj. Gen. Ryno Naidoo said standard crossings and recreational spots have become significantly more hazardous.

This increased risk applies to everyone utilising dams, rivers, lakes, and swimming pools. While water surfaces may appear calm, current environmental conditions often mask dangerous undercurrents and rising depths.

“Many people underestimate the speed and force of moving water, which can cover large areas around rivers, and attempting to swim in such conditions can result in drowning,” said police spokesperson Lt. Col Sam Tselanyane.

The community, parents, and guardians are encouraged to remain observant of these shifting conditions to prevent further loss of life. 

On Wednesday (21/1), three girls and two boys went swimming in a nearby river in Potchefstroom. What began as a recreational afternoon quickly turned into a disaster. “After jumping into the water, two of the girls struggled to swim out.” 

The other teenagers rushed back to Moshana Village to seek emergency assistance. Police divers were dispatched to the scene shortly after the alert was raised at 16:45.

The Motswedi police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Photo: SAPS

The bodies of the two girls, 15 and 17, were retrieved from the river at approximately 10:15 on Thursday. The Motswedi police station has since opened an inquest docket to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths. 

Naidoo emphasised the risks associated with dams and rivers, which are significantly higher during the rainy season.

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