“After at least five days in water, the body of a drowned person is expected to surface. If it does not surface, it is suspected that the body is immersed in sand or debris. The worst-case scenario could be that the body floated to a nearby river that is outside Johannesburg’s jurisdiction,” said Khumalo
Khumalo also said the woman could have drowned in the Sand River that is connected to the Jukskei River as the water covered the low-lying bridge where she was initially swept away.
“We request the neighbouring municipality to be on the lookout for the body. EMS has since handed the case over to SAPS to continue the investigation. Our heartfelt sympathy is extended to the family during this time.
Her family, based in Cosmo City, Randburg, was notified of the latest status of the case yesterday by EMS senior management.
ratsatsik@sowetan.co.za
Police to probe Jukskei River flood victim case
Woman swept away on Rivonia Road in January 12
The case of a woman who was swept away by floods in Sunninghill, Johannesburg, has been handed over to the police for further investigation.
Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) said the woman was swept away by flash floods on Rivonia Road in January 12.
EMS spokesperson Xolile Khumalo said the rescue team had been searching for her since her disappearance.
“EMS Aquatic Team, which is supported by the police, ZASRA, GPG, National Rescue SA and Gauteng traffic police embarked on an extensive search and rescue operation that lasted for nine days. The body was not recovered during this period.
“After at least five days in water, the body of a drowned person is expected to surface. If it does not surface, it is suspected that the body is immersed in sand or debris. The worst-case scenario could be that the body floated to a nearby river that is outside Johannesburg’s jurisdiction,” said Khumalo
Khumalo also said the woman could have drowned in the Sand River that is connected to the Jukskei River as the water covered the low-lying bridge where she was initially swept away.
“We request the neighbouring municipality to be on the lookout for the body. EMS has since handed the case over to SAPS to continue the investigation. Our heartfelt sympathy is extended to the family during this time.
Her family, based in Cosmo City, Randburg, was notified of the latest status of the case yesterday by EMS senior management.
ratsatsik@sowetan.co.za