The body of 54-year-old businessman Tony Govender has been recovered from Hazelmere Dam in KwaZulu-Natal following an intensive five-day search and recovery operation.
The operation, led by the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Metro Police Search and Rescue units, concluded on Tuesday morning after teams worked tirelessly to locate Govender, who went missing on Friday.
Govender, an Umhlanga resident and father of two, reportedly drowned after entering the water to retrieve a drifting jet ski while celebrating his 54th birthday with friends at the popular dam.
His family remained at the dam throughout the search operation, holding onto hope as rescue teams combed the area by land, water and air.
Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) was among the agencies involved in the effort. A helicopter was initially deployed in an attempt to rescue Govender before it was confirmed that he had drowned. At the request of the family, the helicopter was redeployed on Saturday afternoon to conduct a low-level aerial search of the dam.
Despite extensive efforts over several days, Govender's body was only recovered on Tuesday, bringing a tragic end to the search.
Authorities have expressed their condolences to Govender's family and loved ones following the recovery.
The incident has highlighted the dangers associated with open-water activities, particularly when attempting to retrieve equipment in deep water.
Police have not indicated that any foul play is suspected, and the matter is being treated as a drowning incident.