FICKSBURG – The recovery of an unidentified man’s body from the swollen Caledon River near Ficksburg has once again highlighted the dangerous conditions faced by specialised rescue teams tasked with retrieving victims from hazardous waterways.
The operation, carried out over two days amid strong currents and fading light, underscored both the risks involved and the determination required to bring closure to grieving families. The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that an inquest docket has been opened following the successful recovery of the body on Sunday 10 May.
The discovery was first reported on Saturday evening after a local shepherd spotted what appeared to be a body trapped among tree branches in a difficult to access section of the river while herding cattle.
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Members of the Phuthaditjhaba Police Search and Rescue Unit were immediately deployed to the scene, where they encountered severe operational challenges, including dangerously high water levels and poor visibility as darkness approached.
Due to the hazardous conditions, the recovery operation resumed at first light on Sunday morning. After several hours battling the forceful current, the specialised diving team managed to retrieve the body yesterday at approximately 13:40.
Free State Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General, Thabang Lesia, praised the Search and Rescue Unit for their bravery and dedication. He noted that divers frequently operate in freezing, turbulent waters and near-zero visibility conditions in order to recover victims and provide families with an opportunity to begin the mourning process.
The unknown male victim is believed to be in his mid-forties. He was wearing blue overalls, was barefoot and had no visible injuries.
Police have appealed to members of the public who may have information regarding the identity of the deceased to contact the Ficksburg Detective Services on 082 301 9578, the Crime Stop line on 08600 10111, or to submit anonymous information through the MySAPS application.
