An inquest docket has been opened following the recovery of two bodies from a milk cooling tank on a dairy farm in Humansdorp.
The joint rescue operation, executed successfully, took place on Wednesday, 20 May 2026, at approximately 16:29. The South African Police Service (SAPS) Search and Rescue Unit, together with Humansdorp Emergency Medical Services (EMS), EMS Training, and the Humansdorp Fire Rescue Unit, conducted the operation using a 3:1 rope system.
Constable Emilio George, selected for his physical build, was lowered into the confined tank beside the spiral cooling rod. He was equipped with a long-line and a full-face breathing apparatus.
Both victims, employees of the dairy farm, were found face-down in the water. They were carefully recovered through the narrow gap and handed over to EMS, who declared both men dead at the scene. The deceased are aged 27 and 54.
An inquest docket has been opened for further investigation.