Authorities have launched an investigation after the body of a 50-year-old man was recovered from a riverbank in Bryanston, Johannesburg.
The recovery operation was carried out on 16 June by divers from the Johannesburg Water Policing and Diving Services after emergency teams responded to reports of a body in a local waterway.
According to Johannesburg Flying Squad spokesperson Raymond Sambo, emergency personnel were dispatched to the Riverpark area in Bryanston at approximately 14:00.
Recovery Operation Conducted By Water Police
Upon arriving at the scene, rescue teams located the body on an embankment within the river system.
Divers subsequently recovered the deceased and handed the body over to members of the Sandton South African Police Service (SAPS) for further processing.
“On arrival at the scene, the body of a 50-year-old man was recovered from an embankment in the river. The body was retrieved and handed over to Sandton SAPS members, and an inquest docket was opened for further investigation,” Sambo said.
Police have not yet released the identity of the deceased, and the circumstances surrounding the death remain unclear.
An inquest investigation has been initiated to establish the cause of death and determine whether any criminal activity may have been involved.
Authorities have appealed to members of the public who may have witnessed the incident or possess relevant information to come forward and assist investigators.
Witnesses are encouraged to contact Sandton Police Station or the Crime Stop hotline on 08600 10111.
Public Urged To Exercise Water Safety
Following the incident, emergency services used the opportunity to remind residents about the dangers associated with rivers, dams and other open bodies of water.
Water-related incidents remain a concern in many parts of South Africa, particularly during periods when outdoor recreational activities increase.
Sambo advised that anyone entering rivers, dams or other waterways should wear an appropriate life jacket regardless of the intended activity.
He also stressed the importance of supervision when children are near water.
“Parents of young children near open water should educate them about the associated dangers and ensure constant supervision,” he said.
Safety experts have repeatedly warned that natural waterways can present hidden risks, including strong currents, unstable riverbanks and sudden changes in water depth.
The investigation into the Bryanston incident remains ongoing.
Source: Johannesburg Flying Squad and Johannesburg Water Policing and Diving Services.