Young Man Rescued from Namahadi River After Falling from Bridge in Qwaqwa, Free State
A man in his twenties was rescued from the Namahadi River near Lancaster in Qwaqwa, Free State, on Saturday afternoon after reportedly jumping from a bridge.
According to police, the Phuthaditjhaba Community Service Centre received a report at approximately 16:00 about a man who had jumped into the river.
Rescue teams rushed to the scene and found the man lying motionless in the water. He was brought to safety but was unable to move and was transported by ambulance to a local hospital for treatment.
The man, identified as Thabo Sediadia from Bolata Village, reportedly told rescuers that he had heard voices before the incident.
The rescue operation involved the SAPS Rescue and Diving Unit, Tactical Response Team, off-duty police officers and the Maluti-a-Phofung Municipality Fire and Rescue Service.
Free State Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia praised the teams for their swift response and cooperation.
As October marks Mental Health Awareness Month, Lesia urged families and communities to support people experiencing emotional or psychological distress.
He also warned parents and guardians about the dangers of rivers, particularly during hot weather when children may be tempted to swim in unsafe waters.
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