Overview
- Rescuers report the river breaking its banks after fresh rainfall, with fast currents and debris limiting diving and forcing bank sweeps and drone use.
- The incident occurred on Christmas Day during Operation Corona when a Military Police patrol vehicle was swept off a low-level bridge near Macadamia.
- One SANDF member has been confirmed dead and a second remains missing, with overnight operations paused for safety and daytime searches continuing.
- Multi-agency efforts include the SAPS Diving Unit, SANDF Oryx helicopter support, additional helicopters from partner services, and expanded aerial surveillance.
- Authorities recovered the SANDF bakkie and two rifles from the river on Saturday, cautioned the public about hazards including crocodiles, and defence leaders issued condolences while requesting privacy for families.