Driver swept away by flooded river in Atok

A search operation has been launched following a drowning incident in which a flooded river at Atok, Ga-Selepe in Limpopo, swept away a driver [31].

The incident occurred on Monday night, 01 December 2025, at around 21:30, when a vehicle attempting to cross the river was swept away by strong currents.

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A male passenger managed to rescue himself and was taken to a local clinic, where he received medical treatment and was later discharged.

A search operation was immediately activated, and the missing vehicle was located; however, due to dangerous weather conditions and rising water levels, rescuers were unable to reach it.

The search was suspended for safety reasons and resumed the following morning. The vehicle was successfully retrieved, but the 31-year-old driver remained missing.

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The SAPS Search and Rescue Unit and other supporting teams have been continuing with the search to locate the missing man. Efforts remain ongoing.

Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, expressed her appreciation to all role-players for their commitment and teamwork under challenging conditions.

“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.”