Pretoria – Efforts continue in the search for a person who evaded security guards and entered the Hennops River in Centurion, where they were later swept away by swift currents.

According to the City of Tshwane’s Emergency Services Department, they received an emergency alert regarding a missing individual believed to have entered the river on the morning of Sunday, December 22, 2024.

“This incident was reported to the Emergency Communication Centre (ECC) at about 07:15, concerning a possible drowning near West Avenue by the Supersport Park Cricket Stadium,” the City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department mentioned in a statement released on Monday, December 23, 2024.

“The ECC quickly dispatched firefighting personnel from the Centurion Fire Station to the scene.”

“These personnel included a fire engine, a ladder truck, and a rapid intervention unit.”

The City noted that additional assistance was provided by teams from the Central Fire Station and Innesdale Fire Station.

This support comprised a swift water rescue unit, a video unit, and a district commander’s unit.

“Upon arrival, firefighters and rescue teams from our Fire and Rescue Operations Division, alongside divers from the South African Police Service’s water unit, found that a male of unidentified age, who reportedly had escaped from security personnel, had entered the river and was taken away by the strong current,” the statement detailed.

“Firefighters and police divers quickly initiated search and rescue operations, meticulously scouring both the river and its banks.

“The search proved to be challenging and dangerous due to rising water levels and powerful currents, intensified by upstream rainfall.

“After several hours of extensive searching, the operation was paused out of concern for the safety of the search and rescue crew.”

The City announced that rescue operations resumed early on Monday, December 23, 2024.

“However, the significant rainfall overnight rendered the river unsafe for search and rescue activities,” the City clarified.

“Search and rescue teams will continue to assess river conditions to safely carry out their operations.”

The City of Tshwane’s Emergency Services Department encouraged residents to stay alert during the disruptive rains, which are expected to bring isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms.

The repercussions of these disruptive rains may entail the following:

• Localized flooding, especially in vulnerable low-lying regions, informal settlements, and susceptible roads, along with heavy rain, small hail, and damaging winds.

• Minor to major vehicle accidents due to poor visibility and slippery road conditions.

• Localized service interruptions caused by power outages and infrastructural damage.

The City advises residents to remain vigilant and adhere to the following safety measures:

• Be aware that thunderstorms may come with hail, high winds, heavy rain, and/or severe lightning.

• If possible, remain indoors and avoid metal objects that could attract lightning strikes.

• Avoid taking shelter under isolated trees or tall structures that could conduct electricity (like barbed wire fences and power lines) during storms.

• Do not cross flooded low-lying roads, bridges, or swollen streams.

• If you see rising water levels, move to higher ground.

• When outside during lightning, quickly distance yourself from ponds, lakes, and other bodies of water.

The City urges residents to stay updated and monitor short-term weather forecasts as well as alerts from the South African Weather Service and other reputable sources, following all recommended safety tips diligently.

To report any fire or rescue emergencies, please call 107 toll-free or alternatively reach out to 012 358 6300/6400.

When reporting an emergency, please remain composed; speak clearly; know your location to provide the correct address; and provide your accurate contact number so the operator can reach you if needed.