Three traditional healers entered a flooded mining tunnel in Heidelberg, Gauteng, to collect holy water, resulting in one drowning. The deceased sangoma continued further into the narrow, water-filled passage near the Life Ministries Church after his two companions turned back upon sensing danger. Emergency teams, including police divers and local rescue units, recovered his body from about six meters down.
The community is shaken by the incident, which highlights the risks of performing rituals in hazardous natural locations. The two survivors escaped by retreating early when they noticed the air thinning and water rising. Authorities have opened an inquest to investigate the circumstances, though no foul play is suspected. This tragedy has sparked conversations about balancing deep cultural practices with necessary safety precautions, especially during the rainy season when such sites become more unstable.
The community is shaken by the incident, which highlights the risks of performing rituals in hazardous natural locations. The two survivors escaped by retreating early when they noticed the air thinning and water rising. Authorities have opened an inquest to investigate the circumstances, though no foul play is suspected. This tragedy has sparked conversations about balancing deep cultural practices with necessary safety precautions, especially during the rainy season when such sites become more unstable.
