Tragic Double Drowning in Delmas: Suspect and Security Officer Perish in Farm Dam

In a harrowing incident at a farm in Delmas, police are currently investigating the drowning deaths of two individuals under tragic circumstances. The event unfolded on the morning of 18 December 2024, when a theft on a local farm led to a fatal chase and subsequent drownings.

The series of events began when two security officers confronted a man allegedly caught stealing potatoes. In an attempt to evade capture, the suspect plunged into a nearby dam. One of the security officers, committed to apprehending the suspect, followed suit and jumped into the water. The situation quickly deteriorated when both men began to struggle in the water.

A co-worker, seeing the unfolding disaster, dove into the dam in a desperate attempt to save the drowning men. He managed to rescue one of the security officers, but tragically, both the pursuing officer and the suspect succumbed to the waters.

The acting Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga, Major General Dr. Zeph Mkhwanazi, expressed profound condolences to the family of the deceased officer. Remembered for his dedication and commitment, the officer's death highlights the perilous nature of security work. Major General Mkhwanazi also emphasized the stern message to criminals that unlawful activities lead to severe and tragic consequences, asserting that crime does not pay.

The local authorities, alongside emergency services, were quick to respond to the distress call at the farm. However, despite their efforts, both the security officer and the suspect were pronounced dead at the scene.

This incident raises important questions about safety protocols and measures in high-risk situations, especially concerning water bodies on or near properties. It also underscores the dangerous lengths to which individuals will go, whether in the commission of a crime or the line of duty.

The community of Delmas, alongside police and farm management, are currently reviewing safety policies to prevent such tragedies in the future. Meanwhile, SAPS continues to investigate the specifics of the incident to bring clarity and closure to the bereaved families and concerned community members.

Interviews with farmworkers and a review of safety training for security personnel are among the immediate steps taken by local farm management to address the dire outcomes of this event. Community safety remains a top priority as stakeholders seek to balance effective crime prevention with the safety of those enforcing the law.