It’s understood a “prophet” and a 16-year-old congregant were allegedly performing a spiritual ceremony at the Ngwedi River in Thohoyandou on Thursday.

The 26-year-old prophet and the teenager were among a group of congregants who had gathered for the event.

Police spokesperson Motlafela Mojapelo said: “Communities members have been warned to be careful when entering the water and they should preferably do so if they are able to swim to prevent similar incidences from happening.”

Eyewitness News