Police in Apel have launched an intensive search operation for a 31-year-old man who drowned after being swept away by a flooded river at Atok on Monday night.
The incident occurred at approximately 21:30 on 01 December 2025. According to reports, the vehicle the man was driving was overcome by strong currents while attempting to cross the river. A male passenger in the vehicle managed to self-rescue, was transported to a local clinic for medical treatment, and has since been discharged.
An immediate multi-party search operation was activated, involving the Apel South African Police Service (SAPS), the SAPS Search and Rescue Unit, local security services, mine personnel—including drone pilots—and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel.
During the initial response, the missing vehicle was located. However, due to dangerous weather conditions and rapidly rising water levels, rescue teams were unable to reach it safely. The search was suspended for the night and resumed the following morning. While the vehicle was successfully retrieved, the 31-year-old driver remained missing.
The SAPS Search and Rescue Unit, supported by other teams, continues to search for the missing man. Efforts are ongoing.
Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, expressed her appreciation for the collaborative efforts.
“We extend our gratitude to every stakeholder who has been working tirelessly since this tragic incident,” said Lieutenant General Hadebe. “We urge community members to exercise extreme caution when approaching or attempting to cross rivers, particularly during heavy rainfall and flooding.”
Police investigations into the incident are continuing.