RIP | Police diver, 43, dies in Robben Island tragedy

A 43-year-old police diver died during a training exercise near Robben Island in Cape Town on Tuesday, 27 October.

Warrant Officer Dewald Vorster, from the George Public Order Policing (POPS) unit, gave colleagues a thumbs-up after resurfacing from a dive approximately 25 metres below the surface, according to a report.

He started swimming towards the boat, but his colleagues noticed something was wrong as they tried to pull him aboard.

Emergency personnel tried to save Vorster, but he died despite their efforts.

POLICE INVESTIGATE DEATH

Western Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed that Table Bay Harbour Police had opened an inquest.

“The circumstances surrounding his death are under investigation. A post-mortem will be conducted to determine the cause of death,” Twigg said.

Officer leaves behind wife and daughter

Vorster’s father-in-law, businessman Dr Willie Cilliers, described him as a dedicated officer who regularly took part in search and rescue operations, according to a report.

He recently helped search for ostrich farmer Saag Jonker, whom floodwaters swept away near Oudtshoorn.

Vorster leaves behind his wife, Mariëtte, and their two-year-old daughter, Mila.

Family, friends and colleagues will gather at the George Dutch Reformed Mother Church on Friday, 30 October, for an 11:00 memorial service.

His family has opted for a private funeral instead of a state funeral.