Tragedy unfolded near a new RDP housing development in Middelburg late this afternoon when four children were swept into a fast-flowing river following sudden, heavy rainfall. The incident occurred at approximately 17:45 today (1 January) in the Nasaret area, where residents are forced to cross the river daily to reach their homes, schools and nearby shops due to the lack of safe access routes. Initial information confirmed that four children were in the water when the river overflowed after intense rainfall.
A 14 year old girl drowned, while the other children managed to survive including a 12 year old boy, who was barely able to save himself from the icy water. Emergency services responded to the scene, and all surviving children are currently being transported by ambulance to Middelburg Provincial Hospital. Some are reported to be experiencing shortness of breath, while one younger child has been described as inconsolable and crying continuously following the ordeal.
The body of the deceased girl was recovered approximately 300 meters downstream by SAPS members and a police diving unit. This tragedy is the latest in a string ofdrowningincidents in Middelburg over the past two months, many linked to flooding, unsafe river crossings and inadequate infrastructure near residential areas. More information will be released as it becomes available. WATCH: Middelburg train bridge – Sluice water sparks drowning search https://www.tiktok.com/@middelburgobserver/video/7581149412110421269 ♬ original sound – MiddelburgObserver – MiddelburgObserver
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