Two bodies recovered after vehicle swept away in Hennops River floods near Pretoria

Two bodies were recovered on Tuesday after a vehicle was swept away during heavy rains along the Hennops River in Centurion.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, 20 December 2025, near a low-lying bridge.

The City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department confirmed that a Swift Water Rescue Team, together with South African Police Service (SAPS) divers, conducted an extensive search and recovery operation.

According to The City of Tshwane Emergency Services Department spokesperson and Deputy Chief Nana Radebe-Kgiba, the operation began after the vehicle’s last known location was identified.

“The Swift Water Rescue Team, together with South African Police Service (SAPS) divers, commenced search and rescue operations for two people reported missing,” Radebe-Kgiba said.

During the search, the teams discovered the submerged vehicle and recovered the bodies of the two individuals who were trapped inside.

Radebe-Kgiba noted that the incident followed heavy rainfall that caused rising water levels and strong river currents, creating extremely dangerous conditions.

''Authorities are working to secure the scene and complete the necessary procedures,'' she said.

Radebe- Kgiba said that further details regarding the identities of the victims and the circumstances surrounding the incident will be communicated once confirmed by SAPS. 

Radebe-Kgiba urged motorists to exercise extreme caution during heavy rains and to avoid crossing flooded roads and low-lying bridges.

“Emergency Services urges motorists to exercise extreme caution during heavy rains and to avoid crossing flooded roads and low-lying bridges, as water levels can rise rapidly and pose serious risks.

''Residents are reminded to heed weather warnings and safety advisories issued by authorities,” she said.

hope.ntanzi@iol.co.za 

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