Free State Woman Survives 12-Hour Ordeal in Overflowing River After Alleged Assault by Taxi Driver
A 46-year-old woman from Phuthaditjhaba in Qwaqwa, Free State, has survived a terrifying night after she was allegedly pushed into a swollen river by a taxi driver who demanded sex from her. The brave woman clung to a tree branch for more than 12 hours before being rescued by police and municipal divers. This shocking incident has raised fresh concerns about safety for women using public transport in the area, with police now hunting for the suspect.
The event unfolded on Sunday night, 23 November 2025, and highlights the dangers many face during everyday travels. As communities rally around the survivor, authorities are calling for anyone with information to come forward to help bring the perpetrator to justice.
The Harrowing Incident on a Routine Taxi Ride
The woman boarded a taxi from Mabolela village, heading to Phuthaditjhaba, a common route for locals in the region. But things took a dark turn when the driver allegedly veered off the planned path. Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring explained that instead of sticking to the route, the driver diverted and demanded sex from the passenger.
When she refused, he reportedly robbed her of her money and then pushed her into the overflowing river. The water was high and fast-flowing, making it a life-threatening situation. Left to fend for herself in the cold, dark waters, the woman managed to grab hold of a tree branch, which became her lifeline through the night.
This act of alleged violence not only endangered her life but also points to broader issues of gender-based violence and crime in transport. The Free State, like many parts of South Africa, has seen similar reports of assaults on women in taxis, prompting calls for better safety measures such as improved lighting, cameras, and stricter driver checks.
A Desperate Cling to Life and Timely Rescue
For over 12 hours, the woman held on tightly to the branch, battling exhaustion, cold, and the relentless current. Her cries for help went unheard until Monday morning, 24 November 2025, when a passerby finally noticed her plight and alerted the authorities.
Police and municipal divers rushed to the scene and pulled her from the river. She was immediately taken for medical care, where she is now recovering from the ordeal. Mophiring praised her resilience, noting how her quick thinking saved her life in what could have been a tragic end.
Rescue operations in the area are not uncommon, especially during rainy seasons when rivers swell. The Metsimaholo and Maluti-a-Phofung municipalities, which cover parts of Qwaqwa, often deal with flooding and related emergencies. This case, however, stands out due to the alleged criminal intent behind it, adding urgency to community safety efforts.
Police Launch Investigation into Attempted Rape, Murder, and Robbery
The Phuthaditjhaba police have opened a case of attempted rape, attempted murder, and robbery. Mophiring confirmed that investigations are underway, with teams working to track down the taxi driver. “The woman survived by holding onto a tree for more than 12 hours until a passerby heard her calls for help and she is currently receiving medical care,” he said.
Authorities are appealing to the public for any leads on the suspect or the vehicle involved. The taxi industry in the Free State has faced scrutiny before, with reports of drivers linked to crimes like robberies and assaults. This incident could lead to renewed talks with taxi associations to improve passenger safety, such as mandatory background checks and emergency reporting systems.
The survivor’s strength has inspired many, but it also serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities women face. Support groups in Qwaqwa are offering counselling and urging victims to speak out, while police step up patrols in high-risk areas.
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