Mpumalanga — The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga is investigating two separate incidents in which men were swept away by rivers on Monday, 26 January.
In the first incident, a 42-year-old man drowned while performing a spiritual cleansing ritual in the Sithobela River at Holeka, Hartebeeskop. SAPS confirmed that an inquest has been opened into the death.
In a statement on social media, the police said: “SAPS in Mpumalanga is investigating an inquest following an incident in which a 42-year-old man drowned while performing a spiritual cleansing ritual in the Sithobela River at Holeka, Hartebeeskop on Monday, 26/01.”
#sapsMP SAPS in Mpumalanga is investigating an inquest following an incident in which a 42-year-old man drowned while performing a spiritual cleansing ritual in the Sithobela River at Holeka, Hartebeeskop on Monday, 26/01.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident that occurred at the… pic.twitter.com/zmW9b0XlbL
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) January 27, 2026
On the same day, a separate incident occurred at the KaMambedla River in Esperado, Lows Creek. Police received a report of a man being swept away by strong water currents while attempting to cross the river. Details regarding the man’s condition or recovery efforts have not yet been confirmed.
Authorities have warned members of the public to exercise caution around rivers and fast-flowing water, particularly during periods of heavy rain, and advised against attempting risky crossings or rituals in unsafe conditions.
The investigations into both incidents are ongoing.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
