DELMAS – A tragic incident unfolded on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, when a security officer and a suspected potato thief drowned during an attempted escape at Goedgedacht Farm.
Potato theft remains a major problem for farmers in the Delmas area, causing significant income losses. This latest incident highlights the dangerous consequences of such illegal activities.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane, spokesperson for the Mpumalanga provincial police, the tragedy began when the suspect was caught stealing potatoes. “The suspect fled the scene and jumped into a nearby dam,” Ndubane explained.
“One of the security officers pursued the suspect and also jumped into the dam. His colleague, noticing his distress, followed suit,” Ndubane added.
A farm employee who witnessed the incident attempted to assist by jumping into the dam. While the farm worker managed to rescue one of the security officers, the other officer and the suspect tragically drowned.
“This is a heartbreaking loss,” said a local resident who wished to remain anonymous and was close to the deceased security officer. “He was a brave individual simply doing his job. This tragedy has deeply shocked our community.”
Another local resident, identified only as Mr. Mokoena, expressed his condolences to the deceased officer’s family. “Our hearts go out to his family during this difficult time,” he said. “This incident highlights the dangers faced by security personnel in our community.”
Long-time Delmas resident Thandeka Sibanda called for improved safety measures for security personnel. “These officers are the first line of defence for many farms. We need to ensure they are equipped with the necessary training and resources to prevent such tragedies in the future,” she said.
Pastor Melokuhle Mahlangu, a well-known local clergyman, urged the community to unite in the wake of the tragedy. “We must support the families affected and use this moment to reflect on addressing the root causes of crime in our area,” he said.
Farm theft, particularly potato theft, is described as a rampant and seasonal issue in the Delmas area. “This crime puts immense pressure on local farmers and security personnel,” said a former manager of a nearby farm. “We need stronger collaboration between farmers, law enforcement, and the community to effectively address the problem,” he added.
Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, Acting Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga, conveyed his condolences to the family of the deceased security officer. He emphasised the risks faced by security personnel and issued a stern warning to criminals, stating, “Crime does not pay.”
