The Acting Provincial Police Commissioner of North West, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, has commended members of the provincial diving and search-and-rescue units for their bravery and swift response following flash floods that swept through parts of the Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District.
Heavy rainfall triggered sudden flooding across several communities, placing lives at risk and prompting urgent rescue operations led by the South African Police Service (SAPS). Members of the North West Provincial Diving Unit, working alongside the Vryburg K9 Search and Rescue Unit, have been operating continuously since the early hours of May 1, when the first distress call was logged at approximately 3:30 a.m.
According to police, the team has responded to 10 rescue scenes and one recovery operation over the past several days. Eight people were successfully rescued from dangerous floodwaters. Among them were three individuals found clinging to tree branches in Reivillo, Pudimoe and Taung, while five others were pulled to safety after vehicles they were travelling in were swept away.
“This was a highly challenging situation, with fast moving water and limited visibility,” police officials said, noting that the operations required precision and coordination under hazardous conditions.
Despite the successful rescues, tragedy struck when a 12 year-old girl drowned in a quarry near Lokgabeng, adjacent to Mokasa 2 village in Taung. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon, May 3, at around 5:30 p.m. Her body was recovered the following day.
Major General Naidoo praised the efforts of the rescue teams, including Warrant Officers Christo van Heerden, Pieta Lamprechts, Walter Congwane and Johan van Wyk, Captain Topsie Smit, and Sergeant Moletsane Alfred Moloi of the K9 unit.
“The dedication, courage and unwavering commitment displayed by our divers and search-and-rescue member are a true reflection of the values of the South African Police Service,” Naidoo said. “They placed their own lives at risk to save others under extremely dangerous conditions.”
He extended condolences to the family of the deceased child, describing the loss as deeply saddening.
Authorities have urged residents to exercise extreme caution during periods of heavy rainfall and flooding. Police warned against attempting to cross waterlogged roads and advised people to assess water conditions carefully before entering rivers or other open water sources.
Safety guidance issued by SAPS includes remaining calm if caught in fast flowing water, keeping the head above water by paddling and kicking, and avoiding areas where strong currents may pull swimmers under.
Officials emphasized that swimming in natural bodies of water poses greater risks than in controlled environments, particularly during or after heavy rains when currents are stronger and visibility is reduced.
Emergency teams remain on high alert as weather conditions continue to pose potential risks in the region.