A young man who reportedly heard voices before falling from a bridge into a river in Qwaqwa in the Free State was rescued in a dramatic operation involving police and firefighters.
Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring said the man, in his twenties, was found motionless in the Namahadi River near Lancaster after plunging from the Namahadi River bridge on Saturday afternoon.
Rescue teams rushed to the scene after the Phuthaditjhaba Community Service Centre received a report at about 4pm that someone had jumped from the bridge into the water.
The Phuthaditjhaba Police Rescue and Diving Unit, Tactical Response Team members, off-duty police officers and the Maluti-a-Phofung Municipality Fire and Rescue Service joined forces to save him.
“They managed to bring him safely to the riverbank, where it was discovered that he was unable to move. He was subsequently transported by ambulance to a local hospital for further medical treatment,” said Mophiring.
The man reportedly told rescuers that he had heard voices before the incident. The circumstances surrounding the incident were not provided.
Free State Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia praised the emergency teams for working together to save the man's life, while also urging families to look out for loved ones experiencing emotional or psychological distress.
“I would like to express my appreciation for the continued cooperation and strong working relationship between SAPS and the Maluti-a-Phofung Municipality Fire and Rescue Service. Their swift response demonstrates their commitment to saving lives and serving our communities during emergencies,” said Lesia.
October is Mental Health Awareness Month, and Lesia urged parents, relatives and families to support those going through difficult times.
He also warned parents and guardians to remain vigilant as hot weather conditions increase the risk of children drowning while swimming in rivers.
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