10/05/2026
Ficksburg Police in the Free State have opened an inquest docket following the recovery of an unidentified man's body from the Caledon River on Sunday, 10 May 2026.
While the circumstances surrounding the death are under investigation, the recovery highlights the often perilous and selfless work performed by our specialized diving units to ensure closure for grieving families.
The incident began on Saturday evening, 09 May 2026, at approximately 18:40, when members of the Ficksburg Community Service Centre received a report of a body trapped among tree branches in the river. A local shepherd, who had been herding cattle, alerted the police after spotting the body floating in a difficult-to-reach section of the water.
The Phuthaditjhaba Police Search and Rescue Unit was immediately mobilized. Upon arrival, the team was met with extreme challenges, including fading light and a dangerously high water flow.
Demonstrating the technical expertise and caution required in such high-risk environments, the unit began the recovery operation at daybreak on Sunday, 10 May 2026.
After hours of working in the forceful current, the team successfully retrieved the body at approximately 13:40.
The Free State Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia and his management, wishes to extend its deep appreciation to the Search and Rescue members. "These divers often operate in near-zero visibility and freezing, turbulent waters, risking their own safety to fulfill a sacred duty: returning the remains of loved ones to their families so they may find peace and begin the process of mourning" said the General.
The deceased is an unknown male, estimated to be in his mid-forties. He was found wearing a blue overall, was barefoot, and had no visible injuries.
An inquest has been opened for further investigation. We urge anyone with information regarding the identity of the victim to contact the Detective Warrant Officer Mofolo of Ficksburg Detective Services on 082 301 9578 or on 08600 10111 or drop an anonymous tip-off via the .
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