PARAMARIBO — Following the drowning death of fourteen-year-old DM, the Suriname Police Corps (KPS) urged parents and young people on Thursday evening not to swim in open water. “Also avoid dangerous stunts at swimming facilities, as you never know what danger may exist under the water,” the police force writes on its website.
The KPS also believes it is advisable that children always swim under the supervision of adults. “After all, accidents can happen anywhere. If you or your children do not know how to swim, make sure that there are always lifeguards present at public swimming facilities. Even if you know how to swim, you should not let yourself go, as certain places are naturally dangerous. Always follow the instructions of the local residents and/or lifeguards.”
“Avoid dangerous stunts at swimming facilities as you never know what danger might lie under the water”
This urgent appeal from the KPS follows the death of DM on Wednesday in Lelydorp. Initially, the police reported on Wednesday evening that the victim was twelve years old and had drowned in a deep gutter. On Thursday evening it was stated that research by the Lelydorp police made it clear that DM was two years older. On Wednesday afternoon he went to the swamp on Hoeksteenstraat with two friends. These know how to swim and were often in the swamp.
While the other two were having fun in the water, DM must have pulled off a stunt from a tree. As a result, he ended up in the deep water and went under. According to the police, the two friends immediately came to his aid, but they were unable to bring the victim to the side. They then sought the help of an adult. However, DM had already disappeared into the depths.
Local residents and relatives immediately launched a search. The lifeless body was located by a family member and removed from the water. The victim showed no signs of life. Quick resuscitation attempts and assistance from the nearby Surcad ambulance service proved fruitless. On behalf of the Public Prosecution Service, DM’s lifeless body was handed over to the relatives by the police.
