Third Victim Recovered From Tugela River In Msinga After Bakkie Swept Off Bridge During Heavy Rain

Authorities have recovered the third body from the Tugela River in the Msinga area of KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday morning after a bakkie carrying several passengers was swept away during heavy rain on Thursday night.

The vehicle was crossing a low-lying bridge when rising floodwaters carried it into the swollen river. According to local disaster management officials, some occupants managed to escape before the vehicle was taken by the current.

Sbonela Khoza from Msinga disaster management says the driver and front passenger managed to jump out in time, while six other passengers travelling in the canopy at the back were unable to get out.

Search Efforts Continue After Bakkie Swept Into Tugela River

Two other bodies were recovered on Friday at different points along the river. Search and recovery teams have been combing the area since the incident, with operations continuing along the Tugela River.

Khoza has warned that low-lying bridges pose a significant risk during periods of heavy rainfall, particularly when rivers swell rapidly and water levels rise above road crossings.

Emergency teams have urged motorists and residents to avoid attempting to cross flooded bridges or roads during storms.

Family Member Describes Moment Bakkie Was Swept Away

Among those affected is Sifiso Chonco, who watched helplessly as the powerful current carried the vehicle downstream during the storm.

His sister, Gcinile, is among the victims whose bodies have been recovered.

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He says she had started working on a nearby farm about a week ago and was being transported home with other farm labourers when the incident occurred.

Authorities are continuing recovery operations in the area as communities along the Tugela River remain on alert following the recent heavy rains.