Free State – A 13-year-old boy has drowned at a water quarry in Thabong, Free State, prompting a police inquest into the circumstances surrounding his death.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) said the body of Kamohelo Mokhethi was retrieved from the quarry near Erfdeel Road on Sunday, 1 November 2026, at approximately 08:15.
According to police, the teenager had been swimming with two friends at the quarry on Saturday, 31 October, when he reportedly became submerged underwater.
“ It is further alleged by his friends that he became submerged under water and subsequently drowned,” SAPS said in a statement.
The search and rescue operation could not proceed on Saturday because of poor lighting conditions.
On Sunday morning, the Welkom and Bloemfontein diving units were activated to continue the search and retrieve the teenager’s body.
“He was pronounced deceased by emergency medical services personnel,” police said.
Mokhethi was subsequently identified by his family.
Police have registered an inquest to investigate the incident, adding that “the circumstances leading to the fatal drowning will form part of the police investigation”.
SAPS has urged parents and guardians to educate children about water safety and ensure they understand the dangers of swimming in unsafe areas.
“Teach children to ask for permission before going near water. Children are encouraged to swim in designated and supervised areas only,” the statement said.
Follow African Insider on Facebook, X and Instagram
Picture: Pexels
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
