Family, friends and colleagues gathered at the George Dutch Reformed Mother Church this morning to pay tribute to Warrant Officer Dewald Vorster (43), a police diver who died near Robben Island on Tuesday 27 October.

Vorster was reportedly participating in a police training exercise when the incident occurred.

Western Cape police spokesperson Sgt Wesley Twigg confirmed that Table Bay Harbour Police had opened an inquest into the death. He said a post-mortem examination is expected to help establish the cause of death.

Vorster was a well-known member of George Public Order Policing (POPS) and a respected police diver who served the community through numerous search operations, including the recent search for Oudtshoorn ostrich farmer Sagaria “Saag” Jonker.

At the memorial, a colleague remembered Vorster for his warm personality and infectious smile.

“He always had a smile…he was a special person. He always made people laugh.”

His father-in-law, Dr Willie Cilliers, described the news of his death as a shock to the family.

Meanwhle tributes are pouring in for the late officer, with many remembering him as a dedicated servant who made a difference in his community.

Vorster leaves behind his wife, Mariëtte, and their two-year-old daughter, Mila.

He will be laid to rest during a private funeral service attended by family and close friends.

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