The recovery of the body of an off-duty police officer who was swept away by floods in Soweto on Friday has left the community devastated. Warrant Officer Ntsako Pataka, 36, was tragically swept away by the heavy rains that caused significant damage to roads, homes, businesses, and the power supply in Soweto and other parts of Johannesburg.
After tireless efforts of search and rescue teams, Pataka’s body was found. He had been a member of the Protection and Security Services for 15 years and it’s such a shame that he had to die in a flood that could have been prevented if only the government really cared about ordinary citizens.
Meanwhile the National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, has thanked the emergency personnel for their hard work and offered his condolences to Pataka’s family.
The floods have also caused growing anxiety among residents living in wetlands in Johannesburg. Many of their homes have been damaged, and they are fearful that their structures could be washed away if the floods continue. One resident spoke of the danger to children who often play near the water and the fear that has been present in their community for over a decade.
Even as we face our individual problems with faith and hope for better days, our hearts go out to the family of Warrant Officer Pataka and to all those impacted by the devastating floods. We hope that they can find strength and support during this difficult time.