Wilderness Search And Rescue (WSAR) responded to a distress call from the Wemmershoek area on Sunday evening, where a tragic incident claimed the life of a 22-year-old woman during adverse weather conditions.
A team of alien vegetation-clearing professionals was descending from their remote camp to avoid a storm when one member of the team fell. Rescuers immediately hiked to the scene but, unfortunately, found the woman deceased due to the severity of her injuries.
Given the hazardous conditions, recovery operations were postponed until first light on Monday morning. A large multi-disciplinary team, including Western Cape Department of Health & Wellness EMS, SAPS WPDS and WSAR members, returned to recover the deceased.
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The team successfully retrieved the woman’s body, which was then transported to a staging point and handed over to local SAPS and forensic services. The operation concluded late Monday evening.
WSAR emphasises the importance of outdoor safety and urges everyone to memorise the emergency contact number: 021 937 0300.
They also encourage support for their life-saving efforts through donations to their Back-A-Buddy platform and general support initiatives.
In light of this tragedy, WSAR extends heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased during this difficult time.
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Picture: Tim Lundy / Wilderness Search And Rescue WSAR Western Cape