DEAD BODIES IN HARBOUR

THE bodies of an ouma and oupa from Poland were found in Table Bay Harbour following a suspected drowning incident.

The Royal Cape Yacht Club said the tragedy occurred during the evening of 20 May and early hours of the morning on 21 May.

The Club said: “It is with deep sadness that the Royal Cape Yacht Club confirms a tragic incident… An elderly couple, both dual citizens and long-standing members of the Club, were found deceased in the waters adjacent to the [club's] marina.

“At approximately 7am this morning, a fellow Club member and close friend of the couple arrived to greet them aboard their vessel, only to discover the wife’s body in the water. The Marina Manager was immediately alerted and in turn contacted the South African Police Service.”

Police spokesperson Colonel Andrè Traut said: “Police were called to the Royal Cape Yacht Club in Table Bay Harbour this morning following the suspected drowning of an elderly couple believed to be Polish nationals in their seventies.

“At approximately 8am, police divers discovered the bodies of a man and a woman in the water. An inquest docket has been opened by Table Bay Harbour police to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

“At this early stage, foul play is not suspected. A post-mortem examination will be conducted to confirm the cause of death, although drowning is considered the most likely cause.

“The identities of the deceased are being withheld pending formal identification and notification of next of kin.”

According to reports on a preliminary inspection of the vessel, all personal belongings and cellphones were found undisturbed and led to a broader search of the area.

Ongelukkig, the man’s body was discovered within the marina.

Royal Cape Yacht Club General Manager Toni Mainprize said: “We are devastated by this tragic loss. The couple have been loyal members of the Club since 2010, visiting annually to carry out maintenance on their boat, during which time they were granted special permission to reside onboard. Their presence in our community will be sorely missed.”

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.