Horror on the Drava River! A nine-year-old boy vanished in the raging river while with his mother and younger brother at an unregulated swimming spot. A strong river current suddenly swept the three into the water. Three brave men managed to pull out the mother and younger brother safely, but the boy disappeared beneath the surface, and for days there was no trace. Sadly, the body was found several kilometers downstream, according to unofficial sources. The search lasted from Monday evening, involving divers, police, and firefighters, but tragedy was inevitable.
The head of the HGSS Osijek station, Krešimir Burazin, said their team will soon end the search as their involvement is no longer needed. The Osijek-Baranja Police Department is still awaiting official confirmation of the body’s identity. This is yet another painful reminder of how dangerous unregulated swimming areas are, and how treacherous and deadly river currents can be.
As the family and community say goodbye to the boy, questions arise about safety at such places. Can such tragedies be prevented? Are the authorities doing enough to secure safe swimming spots? This tragedy casts a shadow over summer and reminds us how important it is to be cautious and responsible near water.
If you have ever been to the Drava or a similar river, you know how unpredictable the current can be. If not, now you have one more reason to think twice before swimming in unregulated areas. While we mourn the lost life, remember that every tragedy is a call to action. So, what do you think — is it time to finally shut down wild swimming spots, or will we wait for the next tragedy? Drop a comment, let’s see who’s for and who’s against!
