By Staff Reporter
NELSPRUIT – Police in Lydenburg are investigating an inquest following the tragic drowning of a 10-year-old boy at Kwena Dam near Mashishing on Sunday, October 26, 2025, around 15:30.
According to police reports, officers arrived at the scene to find that the child had already been certified dead by paramedics.
The boy’s mother, Dipolelo Baadjie, told police that the family had gone fishing and were relaxing at the dam when the tragedy occurred. The children were reportedly playing close to the water when she suddenly heard their cries for help.
The boy’s father managed to rescue one of the children, but sadly, Moeketsi Baadjie (10) drowned before further help could reach him.
SAPS K9 divers from Lydenburg and White River were dispatched to the scene and successfully recovered the boy’s body at approximately 17:30.
With the festive season approaching, police have urged members of the public to remain alert around dams, rivers, and swimming areas — particularly when children are present. They also cautioned against consuming alcohol while near open water, as many preventable drownings occur during this time of year.
The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, extended his condolences to the grieving family and praised the swift response of the SAPS diving unit. He further appealed to families to always prioritize safety when visiting recreational water sites.
