At approximately 12:00 hours yesterday afternoon 24 April 2025, SAPS members received a distress call reporting that farm workers' houses near the Koppies Dam had become submerged due to the dam overflowing.
Crucially, the report indicated that individuals were still trapped inside these dwellings. Responding immediately, members of the Police Diving Unit, displaying exceptional dedication and bravery, swiftly mobilized to the scene.
Their efforts were significantly bolstered by the selfless assistance of a local resident, Mr. Zitzeke, who voluntarily arrived with his tractor to aid in ferrying the stranded victims to safety. The dedicated team, consisting of Warrant Officer Hollie Holtzhausen, Sergeant Arno Cronje, Sergeant Sweli Simamane, Constable Jaja Molefe, and Constable Monica Delport, worked tirelessly in challenging conditions. The team worked tirelessly until at about 22:00
Their coordinated efforts resulted in the successful rescue of a total of ten individuals from one farm, encompassing two separate locations that had been severely affected by the flooding.
In one incident, the team successfully rescued a male who was trapped inside a shack. In a separate but equally critical operation, they managed to safely extract three women, three males, three vulnerable infants aged just 3 and 4 months old and an elderly male who were trapped inside a flooded farmhouse.
Free State Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane commends the swift action and unwavering commitment displayed by WO Holtzhausen, Sgt Cronje, Sgt Simamane, Cst Molefe, and Cst Delport. Their bravery and professionalism in the face of a dangerous situation undoubtedly saved lives. The Free State SAPS also extends its sincere gratitude to Mr. Zitzeke for his invaluable and selfless assistance during this critical rescue operation. This act of community spirit highlights the positive impact of collaboration during times of crisis.
