A three-day search for Saag Jonker, an 85-year-old ostrich farmer from Oudtshoorn, South Africa, has ended in tragedy. Jonker's family confirmed his death on Tuesday, stating that they are grateful to have found him, despite the devastating circumstances. According to the family, Jonker was found in his vehicle in the Olifants River, where he had been swept away on Sunday while crossing a low-water bridge in his Toyota Land Cruiser.
The search for Jonker involved multiple parties, including police divers, rescue workers, and community members. The operation was extensive, with police divers having to feel their way through the water "foot by foot" due to the challenging conditions. Several drones were also deployed to aid in the search. Jonker's family expressed their deep gratitude to the Oudtshoorn community and everyone involved in the search effort.
Jonker's disappearance occurred on Sunday when he was driving his vehicle across a low-water bridge over the Olifants River, approximately 3 km outside Oudtshoorn. The river was in full flood following heavy rainfall in the catchment area south of Beaufort-Wes. Witnesses, including a security guard at a nearby watchhouse and a woman living near the river, reported seeing Jonker's vehicle being swept away.
Saag Jonker was a prominent figure in the ostrich farming industry, with his company being the largest privately-owned enterprise involved in the breeding, processing, and marketing of ostriches. His company slaughters nearly 45,000 birds every season. The news of his passing has sent shockwaves through the community and the industry.
The search for Jonker was hampered by the challenging conditions in the Olifants River. On Tuesday, Hannes Visser, associated with the Oudtshoorn Courant, reported that the river level had dropped significantly, but the situation remained difficult. The police divers and rescue teams persevered, ultimately locating Jonker's vehicle.
Jonker's family expressed their appreciation for the support and assistance received during the search. They thanked the police, the diving team, WPDS Southern Cape, and K9 Search and Rescue, as well as those who provided boats, drones, vehicles, and other equipment. The family also acknowledged the efforts of the community members who participated in the search.
The family of Saag Jonker will now be able to properly bid farewell to their loved one. In a statement, they said, "Although our hearts are very sore, there is also a great feeling of gratitude and acceptance that we have found him, that we can now bring him home, and that we as a family can properly say goodbye."
Key points
- Saag Jonker, 85, was found dead in his vehicle in the Olifants River near Oudtshoorn after a three-day search.
- Jonker's company is a leading player in the ostrich farming industry, slaughtering nearly 45,000 birds every season.
- The search effort involved multiple parties, including police divers, rescue workers, and community members.
