A 17-year-old teenager is believed to have drowned in a dam between Monzi and Mtubatuba in Northern Kwa-Zulu-Natal on Monday.

The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) St Lucia crew was activated just after 7 am following reports of a drowning. 

Melinda Snyman, NSRI St Lucia station commander, said that the NSRI St Lucia swimmers and the South African Police Services responded to the scene.

“On arrival on the scene, a local male teenager, aged 17, was missing underwater in the dam, where the local community pointed out an area where it was believed the teenager was missing in the dam,” said Synman.

NSRI rescue swimmers deployed into the water to free dive search, and they located the teenager, who was recovered to shore in cooperation with the police. Unfortunately, the teenager was deceased.

“The body of the teenager was taken into care of the Police and Government Health Forensic Pathology Services,” said Synman.

Police have opened an inquest docket.

In South Africa, 95% of drownings occur in inland rivers, dams, and swimming pools. According to a report released by the NSRI, each year approximately 1500 people drown, and about 30% of those are under the age of 14. Drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death in South Africa. 

Residents are advised to always adhere to safety rules and avoid alcohol consumption when swimming, and to always have company when going swimming.   

 IOL NEWS

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