A fun-filled afternoon ended in tragedy when a Grade 9 learner from Tshiungulela High School, 15-year-old Lesedi Monyaloko, drowned while playing in a stream near Muengedzi in Zamenkomste village on Monday, 3 February.
After school, a group of young boys from the local village walked about seven kilometres to swim in the Muengedzi stream, also known as the Sand River, to escape the sweltering heat. According to reports, five of them ventured into the water.
An eyewitness said Lesedi was swept away moments after entering the stream. When the other children realised what was happening, they tried to save him, but the water was too deep and murky. Unable to help, they ran back to inform the parents and other community members.
The family immediately contacted the police, but by the time officers arrived, it was already dark, and Lesedi was nowhere to be found. Community members and relatives kept vigil at the stream until police divers arrived the following day (Tuesday). Unfortunately, all they could do was retrieve his body.
Lesedi's uncle, Melton Monyaloko, blamed a local farmer for failing to close access to the stream after digging up soil. He said the family had endured a sleepless night, anxiously waiting for the boy's body to be recovered.
Vhembe SAPS spokesperson W/O Vuledzani Dathi said police were investigating the incident. He urged children to avoid playing near streams, riverbanks, or swimming in rivers and dams. "Many smaller dams, streams, and rivers have filled up considerably after the recent heavy rains. Children often misjudge the depth of the water or the strength of the currents, leading to tragic drownings," he said.
With the ongoing heatwave in the province, police expect more children to seek relief in local water sources. Dathi said officers would soon embark on a campaign to visit local schools and warn learners about the dangers of swimming in unsafe waters.
Councillor Malimavhi Phuluwa also cautioned children against playing near rivers, dams, and streams. He urged parents to be vigilant and ensure their children stay away from potentially dangerous areas. "As a matter of urgency, we will hold a community meeting to inform parents about the risks and encourage them to warn their children about the dangers of swimming in rivers," he said.