Search and rescue teams retrieve the bodies of eight people who drowned when their bakkie was swept away.
Image: SAPS
Eight people have drowned in the Free State after their bakkie was swept away by strong currents while attempting to cross a low-level bridge in Heilbron.
Police spokesperson Captain Loraine Earle said that the victims were travelling between two farms along Welgeluk dirt road on Saturday afternoon, March 2 when they attempted to cross the flooded Kliprivier bridge.
The vehicle was overpowered by fast-moving water, leading to a tragic drowning incident.
“The vehicle was swept away by strong currents, leading to the loss of multiple lives,” said Earle.
The victims included an elderly couple, their 10-year-old grandsons, a 14-year-old granddaughter, and their two colleagues, a 34-year-old husband and his 33-year-old wife and their two-year-old daughter.
A farmer discovered the scene on Monday morning, March 3, prompting an immediate response from search and rescue teams.
“Search and Rescue dogs with their handlers and police divers were immediately dispatched this morning, and after an extensive search operation, the bodies were retrieved from the water,” said Earle.
Authorities have opened an inquest docket and are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Police have issued a strong warning to the public about the dangers of crossing flooded areas:
“We advise the public to avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges, or streams, even if the water appears shallow. Do not attempt to walk or drive through fast-moving water, as its depth and strength can be deceiving. Find alternative routes or wait for water levels to subside before proceeding.”
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