A memorial service for a George police diver, who died during a training exercise near Robben Island on Tuesday, 27 October, will be streamed live on YouTube this morning.

The 43-year-old Dewald Vorster, who was a warrant officer attached to the George SAPS Public Order Police Unit, passed away after reportedly diving to a depth of 25 metres during an exercise between Robben Island and Cape Town Harbour.

According to Die Burger, Vorster surfaced for air following the dive and still gave a “thumbs up” to signal that everything was fine, then started swimming towards the boat.

But when his team members attempted to pull him from the water, they realised something was wrong. Vorster received treatment on the boat and later on shore. He sadly passed away.

Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed that the Table Bay Harbour Police had registered an inquest following his death.

Tributes have been pouring in online, including from fellow police officers. Vorster had recently assisted in the large-scale search for ostrich farmer Saag Jonker in Oudtshoorn, who was swept away by floodwaters.

Vorster’s father-in-law, Willie Cilliers, said Vorster’s death came as a massive shock to the family.

Family, friends, and colleagues have been invited to attend Vorster’s memorial service live on YouTube. The live broadcast will begin at 11 am, today, 30 October.