POLICE INVESTIGATES AN INQUEST CASE AFTER A MALE PERSON ALLEGEDLY JUMPED INSIDE THE DAM AND DROWNED – morning of March 16, 2025
TZANEEN POLICE INVESTIGATE DROWNING AT TZANEEN DAM FOLLOWING ALLEGED SUICIDE
TZANEEN, LIMPOPO PROVINCE – The Tzaneen South African Police Service (SAPS) is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 48-year-old man who allegedly jumped into Tzaneen Dam on the morning of March 16, 2025. A case of Inquest has been officially registered as detectives work to determine the precise sequence of events and understand the motivation behind the tragic incident.
According to police reports, the incident occurred at approximately 7:00 AM. Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Thakeng, spokesperson for the Tzaneen SAPS, stated that an eyewitness account is central to the initial investigation. The witness, who was engaged in morning physical training exercises in the vicinity of the dam, reported observing an African male, dressed in a distinctive yellow t-shirt and dark trousers, standing on the bridge overlooking the water.
The witness claims to have observed the individual for approximately one hour before witnessing him jump into the dam. According to the statement, the man struggled in the water for a short period before ultimately succumbing and disappearing beneath the surface.
Upon receiving notification of the incident, the Tzaneen SAPS immediately dispatched officers to the scene. The SAPS Search and Rescue Team was also mobilized, arriving promptly to begin the difficult task of recovering the body. After a dedicated search operation, the team successfully located and retrieved the deceased.
Colonel Thakeng confirmed that the deceased has been positively identified as Phillie Vhuma, a 48-year-old resident of the Tzaneen area. The identification was made by Mr. Vhuma’s next of kin, who have been notified and are currently receiving support from the SAPS Victim Support Unit.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Vhuma during this incredibly difficult time,” stated Colonel Thakeng. “Our investigators are diligently working to gather all relevant information and evidence to present a comprehensive report to the court.”
The case has been formally registered as an Inquest, which is a judicial inquiry conducted to establish the facts surrounding a death. This process will involve further investigation, including potential interviews with family members, friends, and associates of the deceased, as well as a thorough examination of the scene. The purpose of the Inquest is to determine the cause of death and establish whether any foul play was involved.
The Tzaneen SAPS is appealing to anyone who may have information related to this incident to come forward and contact the station at [Insert Phone Number] or report anonymously via Crime Stop on [Insert Crime Stop Number]. Any piece of information, no matter how small, could be valuable to the investigation.
This is a developing story and further updates will be provided as they become available.
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