According to SAPS statement: South African Police Service (SAPS) in Tshitale, Vhembe District, is cautioning members of the community to refrain from swimming in streams and rivers to avoid drownings.
This follows the untimely death of a 16-year-old male victim who drowned while swimming with friends at Nthabalala Village on Wednesday, 28 January 2026.
Police were on patrol duties when they received a complaint about a male victim who drowned at the Nthabalala River and rushed to the area.
Upon arrival at the scene, police found the victim already being retrieved from the river by members of the community.
Emergency Medical Services were summoned to the scene and declared the victim dead upon arrival.
The victim was allegedly swimming in the river with other teenagers when he unexpectedly drowned without being noticed by his peers.
The deceased was positively identified by next of kin as Akonisaho Gift Maiwashe, a resident of Nthabalala Village.Police investigations are continuing.
BY LUCKY SEANEGO
