GQEBERHA – Tragedy struck the Nelson Mandela University community in Gqeberha when a 21-year-old second-year Information Technology student, Bonga Bobo was found dead in the swimming pool at the North Campus Fitness Centre on Tuesday morning, February 24, 2026.
The SAPS spokesperson Captain André Beetge confirmed that an inquest case was opened following the incident at about 07:00.
“It is alleged that he was last seen on Monday, 23 February when he indicated he was going to swim after the gym,” he said. “It is suspected that he drowned and was only discovered this morning [Tuesday] when security opened the premises.”
In addition, Beetge stated that no foul play is being suspected and an inquest case has been opened and is being investigated by SAPS Humewood.
The University issued a statement expressing how deeply saddened the community is by the incident.
“The student’s lifeless body was discovered by staff and students who accessed the swimming pool earlier this morning [Tuesday] and immediately alerted University authorities,” the statement said. “Emergency protocols were activated, and Protection Services together with emergency medical personnel responded to the scene.”
The statement confirmed that he was formally pronounced deceased at the scene.
“The circumstances surrounding his passing are not yet known. The South African Police Service, in collaboration with the University’s Protection Services, is conducting an investigation into the incident,” the statement said. “The outcomes of the investigation will assist the University in determining the next steps.”
The University concluded by adding that it has activated counselling and psychosocial support services for students and staff who may be affected.
