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On 6 October 2025, members of Port Shepstone Search and Rescue, Durban K9 Search and Rescue, Durban Airwing, and Ixopo police successfully recovered the body of an 18-year-old male who drowned in the Umzimkhulu River, Xopo. The body was handed over to Ixopo SAPS for further investigation.
What Happened
The young man reportedly drowned while swimming in the Umzimkhulu River, which prompted an immediate response from multiple search and rescue units. Despite strong currents and poor visibility, teams worked tirelessly over several days to locate the victim.
After several coordinated sweeps along the riverbank, rescue teams successfully recovered the body once conditions allowed them to continue their search safely.
Official Response
Authorities confirmed that the recovery was a joint effort involving specialised K9 units and aerial support. Police expressed appreciation for the dedication shown by all rescue members involved in the operation.
A police spokesperson said, “We commend the commitment of the rescue teams who worked under challenging conditions to bring closure to the family.” The investigation continues to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the drowning.
Community Impact
The tragedy has left the Ixopo community mourning the loss of a young life. Residents have urged parents and young people to exercise caution when swimming in rivers, especially during unpredictable weather conditions.
Meanwhile, local leaders are calling for better awareness campaigns on water safety and the dangers of swimming in unsupervised areas. The recovered body will now undergo official identification and post-mortem procedures.
