The South African Police Service (SAPS) Diving Unit in Mpumalanga is facing mounting challenges in the search for a missing South African National Defence Force (SANDF) member, as heavy rains cause the Nkomazi River to swell and flow faster.
The incident occurred on Christmas Day, 25 December 2025, when a military vehicle carrying two SANDF soldiers on border patrol duties under Operation Corona was swept away while crossing a low-water bridge near the Lebombo Border Post with Mozambique.
One soldier’s body was recovered on Friday, 26 December. The search for the second entered its fourth day on Sunday, 28 December.
SAPS Diving Unit spokesperson Johannes Potgieter explained the difficulties: “The water is up and running harder than the last two days due to upstream rains. If the soldier is deceased, the current could push the body further downstream or trap it underwater against rocks or trees, making recovery much harder.”
Search teams are now conducting foot patrols along the riverbanks, supported by drones, helicopters from SAPS, SANDF, SANParks, and EMS. The submerged vehicle was retrieved on Saturday using a crane, along with rifles and a cellphone.
The Department of Defence has extended condolences to the deceased soldier’s family and pledged full support for the ongoing multi-agency operation. Authorities urge caution around flooded areas amid persistent summer rains.