FREE STATE — A coordinated multi-agency Namahadi River rescue operation successfully saved a young man in his twenties after he fell from the Namahadi River bridge near Lancaster on Saturday afternoon. The incident, which occurred in the Qwaqwa area, prompted a swift response from local law enforcement and municipal emergency services, highlighting critical concerns regarding mental health and water safety in the region.
The emergency was reported to the Phuthaditjhaba Community Service Centre at approximately 16:00 on Saturday, 17 October 2026. Dispatchers received information that an individual had jumped from the bridge into the river below.
In response, a comprehensive joint task force was immediately activated. The rescue deployment included members of the Phuthaditjhaba Police Rescue and Diving Unit, the Tactical Response Team, off-duty police officers, and the Maluti-a-Phofung Municipality Fire and Rescue Service.
Upon arriving at the scene, the rescue teams located the young man motionless in the water. The divers and emergency personnel managed to extract him from the river and bring him safely to the riverbank. Medical responders on the scene discovered that he was conscious but entirely unable to move. He was promptly stabilized and transported by ambulance to a local hospital for further medical evaluation and treatment.
The victim, who identified himself as Thabo Sediadia, a resident of Bolata Village in Qwaqwa, later spoke with the rescue team. During the interaction, Sediadia reportedly disclosed that he had been hearing voices prior to the incident, indicating a potential psychological distress leading up to the event.
Free State Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia commended the successful operation, highlighting the critical importance of inter-agency cooperation. He expressed his deep appreciation for the strong, ongoing working relationship between the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Maluti-a-Phofung Municipality Fire and Rescue Service, noting that their swift, unified response is a testament to their dedication to saving lives during emergencies.
Addressing the underlying circumstances of the incident, Lieutenant General Lesia used the platform to emphasize the importance of the current Mental Health Awareness Month observed in October. He issued a public appeal to parents, families, and relatives to actively look out for one another, particularly those showing signs of emotional or psychological distress.
“Life presents challenges, but we must stand together, show compassion and support those who may be going through difficult times,” Lesia stated, urging communities to foster supportive environments for vulnerable individuals.
In addition to mental health awareness, the Provincial Commissioner addressed pressing seasonal safety concerns. He noted a recent rise in incidents involving children drowning in rivers as they seek relief from hot weather conditions by swimming. Lieutenant General Lesia strongly urged parents and guardians to supervise children closely, keep them away from dangerous waterways, and prioritize water safety to prevent further tragedies.
