By: The Youth Voice Reporter

A 34-year-old man has died after drowning during an alleged spiritual cleansing or prayer ritual at the Sithobela River in Holeka near Ermello. The Chief Albert Luthuli Local Municipality confirmed that the deceased is Mr Lucky Fanyana Shongwe. His family has been notified.

Reports indicate that Shongwe was part of a group conducting spiritual activities at the river when he got into difficulty and drowned. Other individuals who were present survived the incident. Shongwe is believed to have been acting as a traditional or prayer healer at the time.

Emergency services, including SAPS divers and the Municipal Fire and Rescue diving unit, were dispatched to the scene and later recovered the body from the river.

The South African Police Service has opened an inquest docket, and investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing.

The municipality extended its deepest condolences to the Shongwe family, friends and the community, and appealed for privacy during this period of mourning.

Residents have also been urged to exercise extreme caution near rivers and water bodies, especially when engaging in rituals or group activities, as these environments pose serious safety risks.

Psychosocial support will be provided to the affected family and community through the Department of Social Development.