Picture: The Northern Cape MEC for Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform, Lebogang Motlhaping
By STAFF REPORTER
25 June 2026 – The Northern Cape Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform said it is saddened by the tragic accident that occurred on 18 June 2026, near Vaallus Farm in the Douglas area, where a handcrafted raft carrying farm workers capsized in the Vaal River. The department said the raft was transporting 20 people from Vaallus Farm to Olierivier Farm when it capsized during the crossing.
The Northern Cape MEC for Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform, Lebogang Motlhaping said fourteen occupants survived and were treated at a hospital in Douglas before being discharged. Motlhaping said tragically, six farm workers were swept away in the incident.
“Search and rescue operations have since recovered five bodies, while efforts continue to locate one person who remains missing. The department extends its heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, colleagues, and the broader farming community affected by this devastating loss.
“The department further acknowledges the deep pain and uncertainty experienced by the family who’s loved one has not yet been recovered. The affected farm workers have been identified as Boom Neels, Olivier Trooi, Hans George, Yolandie Matjan, Robert Paul and Herodi Michael,” he said.
Motlhaping further said the tragedy has deeply saddened the department and the wider agricultural sector. He added that they are heartbroken by the tragic loss of lives in the Vaal River accident near Douglas.
“These were members of our rural and farming community, people who contributed daily to the agricultural sector and to the livelihoods of their families. On behalf of the department, I extend our sincere condolences to the bereaved families, friends, co-workers, farm owners and the entire Douglas farming community,” said Motlhaping.
He said no words can fully carry the weight of such a painful loss. Motlhaping said, however, they want the families to know that they are not alone.
“The department stands with them during this difficult time and we will work with relevant stakeholders to ensure that appropriate support is extended to the affected families. The department commends the South African Police Service (SAPS) Search and Rescue Unit, emergency services, local authorities and all role players involved in the ongoing search and recovery operation.
“Their continued efforts under difficult weather, terrain and river conditions are deeply appreciated. The SAPS has opened an inquest docket to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident. The department respects this process and will continue to cooperate with relevant authorities, while avoiding speculation on matters that remain under investigation,” he said.
Motlhaping said as part of its response, the department will engage the affected families, local leadership, farming stakeholders and relevant government structures to determine the immediate support required. He said this includes working through district structures to ensure that the bereaved families receive care, guidance, and assistance during this painful period.
“The department also calls on farming communities, farm owners, workers, and rural stakeholders to exercise heightened caution during periods of heavy rainfall and rising river levels. The safety of farm workers and rural communities must remain a shared responsibility, particularly in areas where river crossings form part of daily movement and agricultural operations.
“This tragedy is a painful reminder of the risks faced by rural communities during severe weather conditions. The Department remains committed to working with organised agriculture, municipalities, communities, and relevant government departments to strengthen awareness, preparedness, and safety measures in vulnerable rural areas,” said Motlhaping.
He said the department once again extends its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and continues to keep the family of the missing person in its thoughts as search operations continue.
The Guardian 