Picture: (Courtesy: Internet)

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

A 10 year-old boy drowned at Koekemoer Spruit canal in Khuma Township, Stilfontein on Saturday.

The North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said a case of inquest was opened after Simphiwe Tshabalala who was swimming with his friends drowned.

Mokgwabone said it is alleged that Tshabalala was playing with his friends at Malekutu Bridge in Khuma Township near Stilfontein when they decided to swim.

“He allegedly disappeared under the strong current of the water and police divers were summoned to the scene. The search was conducted, but was temporarily stopped in the evening.

“The search was re-convened this morning and the lifeless body of Tshabalala was discovered at around 10am more than a kilometre from where he allegedly drowned,” he said.

Meanwhile, the North West Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena expressed his concern about incidents of drowning especially of young children.

This comes after five other children aged between three and 17 drowned in Pudimoe, Bojating village, Amalia and Ganyesa between 30 December 2019 and Saturday, 4 January 2020.

Kwena said in one of the incidents in Ganyesa, it is alleged that two boys aged 16 and 17 drowned on Friday after they went swimming in a pond close to Ganyesa hospital.

“We advised all parents to ensure that their children are safe at all times, especially after the heavy rains experienced in the province.

“The public is advised to take heed and apply safety tips before engaging in swimming activities,” Kwena said.

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