By Jonk wa Mashamba
news@alexreporter.co.za
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Major General Jan Scheepers, has issued a clarion call for communities to refrain from endangering their lives by engaging in unsafe activities such as swimming or spiritual practices in hazardous rivers, dams or water streams.
This appeal follows an unfortunate drowning incident that occurred on Sunday 21st January 2024 midday, where a 48-year-old prophet residing at Atok , Apel policing area drowned during spiritual prayer activities.
Reports indicate that three prophets went to the overflowing Lepelle River (Oliphant) for a prayer session. Whilst conducting their prayers, one prophet suddenly experienced difficulties and tragically drowned in the crocodile-infested river.
The other two prophets attempted to search for him but were unsuccessful.
“They subsequently alerted the police who notified members of the SAPS Water Wing Unit, Search and Rescue Unit and Emergency Medical Services to commence search operations.
“On Tuesday 23rd January at approximately 15:00, human remains belonging to the deceased were discovered surrounded by crocodiles. Search teams successfully retrieved his lifeless body. It is suspected that he was attacked by crocodiles during the baptism ceremony,” said spokesperson for police, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba
Scheepers described the incident as very unfortunate and avoidable had necessary precautions been taken into consideration.
He reiterated that communities should exercise great caution during rainy seasons and be mindful not to put their lives at risk by entering rivers, dams or streams without first considering possible dangers posed by wild animals.
“Police investigations are ongoing into this tragic event,” Ledwaba said.