Police in Mpumalanga have opened an inquest following the drowning of a two-year-old boy in White River on Tuesday, 13 January 2026.

The incident occurred in Msholozi C, where the child, identified as Sibusiso Mnisi, lived with his family near a stream. According to the child’s mother, Ms Thapiseng Mnisi, the toddler had been asleep inside the house when she briefly left to cross the nearby stream. Unaware that the child had followed her outside, she later discovered that he had attempted to cross the stream on his own.

It is alleged that the strong current swept the child away. Emergency services and other relevant stakeholders were called to the scene, where paramedics certified the toddler dead.

Police have confirmed that a case of inquest has been opened to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the Mnisi family. He also urged community members to remain extremely cautious, especially during the current wet weather conditions, warning that overflowing streams, rivers and dams pose serious dangers.

Residents are advised to closely supervise young children and to avoid crossing flooded waterways during periods of heavy rainfall.