Urgent search under way for missing driver after flooded river incident in Limpopo
A 31-year-old man remains missing after his vehicle was swept away by a flooded river in Atok, Limpopo. One passenger escaped, and rescue teams continue the search. Authorities urge caution when crossing rivers in heavy rainfall.
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A man is missing after his vehicle was swept away by a flooded river at Atok in Limpopo on Monday, December 1, 2025.
The incident occurred around 9.30pm when the vehicle tried to cross the fast-flowing river. A passenger managed to escape and was treated at a local clinic before being discharged.
Police immediately launched a search operation involving Apel SAPS, the SAPS Search and Rescue Unit, local security teams, mine personnel including drone pilots, and EMS crews. While the vehicle was eventually recovered, rescuers could not reach the 31-year-old driver due to dangerous water levels and adverse weather conditions.
The SAPS Search and Rescue Unit and other teams continue to search for the missing man.
Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, Limpopo’s Provincial Commissioner of Police, praised all involved in the operation.
“We extend our gratitude to every stakeholder who has been working tirelessly since this tragic incident. We urge community members to exercise extreme caution when approaching or attempting to cross rivers, particularly during heavy rainfall and flooding,” said Lieutenant General Hadebe.
Police investigations into the incident are ongoing.