Four Bodies Recovered After Vehicle Swept Away At Limpopo Bridge

Police in Limpopo have recovered four bodies after a vehicle carrying five people was swept away while attempting to cross an overflowing bridge at the Makotopong River.

The discovery was made by officers in Sebayeng, within the Capricorn District, on Monday following an intensive search operation.

Authorities said the group had been travelling in a blue Renault Kwid along the gravel road connecting Madiga and Makotopong villages when disaster struck on Sunday morning.

Survivor raises alarm after vehicle disappears in floodwaters

According to police, the vehicle reportedly lost control and overturned at the flooded bridge before being carried into the river by the powerful current.

Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said one of the occupants managed to escape and alert authorities.

“The Provincial Search and Rescue team responded to the scene and conducted operations, during which the body of Lebapa Petrus Mochitele (27) of Madiga Village was recovered from the water on Sunday, 8 March 2026. EMS personnel certified him dead at the scene.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Cape Flats Bloodbath: Two Men Gunned Down In Suspected Gang Attacks

“Search operations continued on Monday, 9 March 2026, with the Saps Water Wing Unit, assisted by EMS Search and Rescue, Fire and Rescue Department, and the EMS helicopter. During the operation, the submerged vehicle was located, and three additional bodies were recovered,” Ledwaba said.

The remaining victims were later identified as Seobi Dikgale (33), Betty Makokoane (22), and Shellote Dikgale (30), all from Madiga Village.

Limpopo police commissioner sends condolences as floods batter province

Limpopo provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe commended the multi-disciplinary teams involved in the difficult search operation, which lasted two days.

She said the recovery effort was important in helping the families of the victims find closure.

“My heart felt condolences to all the bereaved families.”

Police have since opened an inquest docket while investigations into the tragedy continue.

Heavy rains continue to wreak havoc across Limpopo

The incident comes as Limpopo continues to experience heavy rainfall that has triggered flash floods across several areas.

Severe weather has forced the closure of some schools and disrupted daily life in parts of the province.

Provincial authorities are still dealing with the aftermath of devastating floods that damaged roads, bridges, homes, clinics and other public infrastructure during December and January.