The Free State Police say they are waiting for a post-mortem on the man to determine the cause of death. The 62-year-old Msokoli Khuthu was last seen by his family on Friday. Police say they were notified by a passerby that there was a body floating where the sludge is currently being removed.

This follows heavy downpours at the weekend.

The family is still trying to come to terms with the incident. 

Khuthu’s niece, Sinah Khetha, explains: "I am very hurt because we lost my mom’s brother, and he was the only one left to protect the family."

Thandazo Khuthu says his father was the one keeping the family together. "I am not okay. I last saw him on Friday when he told me that I should cook… he is coming. Then he never came home. Then I thought he was with his friend. Even Saturday I didn’t see him."

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The Kopanong Municipality's Mayor, Xolani Tseletsele, says the incident is still under investigation. "There is a dead body that was found at a site that is cleaned by the mine. To our detriment, we saw a gentleman on the water and police managed to assist to ensure that the emergency services are on site to remove the body."

An inquest has been opened, says police spokesperson Peter Kareli. "Emergency services were called to the scene and the victim was declared deceased. The investigation will be guided by the post-mortem results."

Residents affected by the collapse of the mine dam have been accommodated in various places by the provincial government. The Red Cross humanitarian organisation says it will continue to provide aid and psychosocial support.

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Free State Red Cross manager, Claudia Mangwegape, says: "We have engaged Lifeline to provide extensive counselling for those who are affected. So both professionals and community members will be assisted. We are working with them to see what the best way is to assist in terms of psychosocial support."

The cleaning operation continues in Jagersfontein. 

SABC News/Aphumelele Mdlalane