Zuko Komisa
- A vehicle carrying three individuals plunged into the Crocodile River near Mbombela on 7 June 2026.
- The bodies of two 20-year-old victims and the vehicle were recovered by emergency teams on the same day.
- Following a perilous nine-day search, the body of the final missing victim was recovered three kilometres downstream on 16 June 2026.
A multi-agency search and recovery operation has concluded following a tragic accident where a white Haval SUV plunged into the Crocodile River near Kamagugu, outside Mbombela, in the early hours of 7 June 2026.
Emergency teams, alerted by local community members, immediately launched a coordinated search.
On the day of the incident, officials successfully recovered the vehicle along with the bodies of two victims, identified as Vigo Godfrey and Tintswalo Khoza, both aged 20.
The recovery team faced highly perilous conditions throughout the nine-day operation, navigating strong currents and constant threats from local wildlife, including crocodiles and hippopotamuses.
Despite these dangers, the team discovered the body of the third victim, believed to be 21-year-old Zenande Chiloane, on Tuesday, 16 June 2026. The body was located approximately three kilometres downstream from the initial crash site.
Officials praised the relentless efforts of the South African Police Service (SAPS) specialized units, local municipal services, medical teams, private security firms, and community volunteers who refused to give up until the final victim was found.
“Sincere appreciation and gratitude to all role players who demonstrated exceptional commitment, resilience and dedication during the extensive search and recovery operation following a tragic incident in the Crocodile River…”
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