As flooding continues across Vhembe amid persistent heavy rainfall, infrastructure damage has displaced communities and, tragically, claimed lives. In a recent incident, a businessman and his assistant were swept away while attempting to cross a flooded river.
The tragedy occurred at the Tswinga Bridge on Saturday, 17 January, around 13:00. According to information obtained by Limpopo Mirror, a well-known Somali businessman, Mr Ali Noor (36), was travelling from Thohoyandou in a bakkie loaded with stock for his shop when he attempted to cross the overflowing Dzindi River. His vehicle was swept away by the strong current.
“He had earlier managed to cross with stock, and this was the second load. Bystanders warned him against crossing the flooded river, but he ignored them and ended up being swept away. It looked like an action movie scene, and residents watched in disbelief as the bakkie, with its occupants, disappeared into the water,” said a source at the scene.
Local traditional leader Vhamusanda Vho Mmbangiseni Alfred Tshishongs described the incident as heartbreaking. “We are very saddened by his disappearance. He owned several spaza shops in the village and was a philanthropist who always assisted those in need. We are worried this tragedy could have been averted if the government had built a proper bridge here. Every time there are heavy rains, we are cut off from the world,” he said.
Limpopo police spokesperson Brig Hlulani Mashaba confirmed the disappearance of Noor and his assistant. “Upon being alerted, police immediately launched a search operation with SAPS Search and Rescue (Water Wing), Emergency Medical Services, and K9 units. The search continues, but the two occupants and the vehicle are still missing,” he said.
Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant-General Thembi Hadebe urged community members and drivers to avoid crossing flooded rivers, streams, or bridges under any circumstances.