Three Church Members Drown During Baptism Ceremony At Wellas River In Embalenhle, Mpumalanga

Embalenhle, Mpumalanga – 27 April 2026 – Three people, a 59-year-old woman and two teenagers aged 17 and 19, drowned while participating in a church baptism at the Wellas River behind Extension 22 in Embalenhle on Sunday, 26 April 2026, at approximately 10:00.

Police in Embalenhle have opened an inquest docket to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. A church leader, accompanied by members of the congregation, had gathered at the river for prayer and religious activities.

According to reports, the 59-year-old woman and the two teenagers entered the water for the purpose of baptism. While they were in the river, the group noticed that the water level was rising. The woman allegedly lost her footing and attempted to regain her balance by holding onto the two teenagers. All three subsequently lost stability and submerged in the water.

The church leader attempted to rescue the victims but was unsuccessful. The incident was promptly reported to the police. The SAPS Search and Rescue team, along with other role players including divers from Delta 1 Rescue Diving, was summoned to the scene. The bodies of all three victims were recovered from the river and declared deceased on site.

No further details regarding the identities of the victims have been released by authorities at this stage. The investigation into the exact circumstances of the drowning continues.

Police have urged community members and religious groups to exercise extreme caution when conducting activities in and around open water bodies, particularly during religious ceremonies or recreational events. They emphasised the dangers posed by rising water levels in rivers and advised against entering unfamiliar or swollen water sources.

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about water safety during religious baptisms in natural water bodies across South Africa, especially in areas where river conditions can change rapidly. Similar tragedies have occurred in the past when groups underestimated the power of currents or sudden rises in water levels.

Members of the public who may have information that could assist the investigation are encouraged to contact the Embalenhle police or the nearest SAPS station. The inquest will determine the full facts leading to the deaths.

Updates on the investigation will be provided as more verified information becomes available from official SAPS sources.

This report is compiled exclusively from confirmed South African Police Service statements and consistent multi-source reports of the events on 26 April 2026. No unverified details or speculation have been included.