Khayelitsha man rescued from near-fatal drowning at Monwabisi Beach
A dramatic rescue unfolded at Monwabisi Beach as a 23-year-old Khayelitsha man fought for his life in the surf.
Image: Ayanda Ndamane/ Independent Newspapers
A 23-year-old man from Khayelitsha is recovering in hospital after a near-fatal drowning at Monwabisi Beach on Tuesday afternoon.
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) activated its Strandfontein duty crew at approximately 14:36 following a lifeguard's report of a drowning in the surf zone.
The City of Cape Town’s (CoCT) water rescue network, including law enforcement marine officers, shark spotters, EMS, and fire and rescue services, was also dispatched.
NSRI Strandfontein station commander Nicky Whitehead said: "On arrival on the scene, a CoCT Law Enforcement Marine Unit officer entered the water to go to the aid of a man in distress in the surf zone. The officer reached the man and was able to rescue him to the shoreline, where a shark spotter assisted him to get the man out of the water and onto the beach."
Shark spotters had confirmed the active drowning before rescuers reached the scene, prompting urgent intervention. An NSRI rescue swimmer arrived shortly after the man was brought ashore and, together with other responders, began administering medical care.
The man was treated for non-fatal drowning symptoms. "The man was stabilised on the scene before being transported to hospital by EMS ambulance in a stable condition," Whitehead said.
It is believed the man had been caught in rip currents while swimming, a frequent hazard at Monwabisi Beach, known for strong and unpredictable surf conditions.
The incident comes amid heightened concern over water safety during the Easter period, when authorities warn that stronger spring tides and increased beach attendance raise the risk of drownings.
The NSRI has cautioned that rougher sea conditions and powerful rip currents during this time significantly increase the danger to swimmers.
Monwabisi itself has seen past tragedies, including fatal drownings and rescue attempts that turned deadly, underscoring the unpredictable nature of the surf.
Rescue officials commended the swift, coordinated response, particularly the actions of the law enforcement officer, whose rapid intervention is credited with saving the man’s life, as well as the support from shark spotters and emergency services.