Paulshof residents petition to stop animal sacrifices
Residents say disturbing rituals along the riverbanks are turning their suburb into a lawless zone, and they are demanding urgent intervention from the city and province.
Every weekend, Albert Gumbi, a long-time resident and former chairperson of the Paulshof Residents and Ratepayers Association, said Paulshof residents are forced to wake up in the early hours due to loud drumming, chanting, and other ritual activities taking place along the Braamfontein and Sandspruit riverbanks.
Gumbi said these gatherings frequently involve public nudity, animal slaughter, open fires, and the disposal of waste directly into the waterway. “We are witnessing shocking scenes, people walking around nude in broad daylight, the slaughtering of animals near homes, and fires burning for hours. This is no longer about cultural freedom; it’s about basic public health, safety, and decency.”
Gumbi alleges that despite repeatedly reporting the matter to the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and the Environmental Health Directorate, no consistent enforcement has taken place.
@caxtonjoburgnorthPikitup teams were called in to remove alleged sacrificial goat remains along the Sandspruit after another weekend of noisy river rituals involving public nudity, animal killings, and fires. Video: Supplied
The petition, now circulating online, describes how the riverbanks have effectively become unregulated spaces, where by-laws are openly violated. Locals also raised concerns over the potential for disease outbreaks, environmental damage, and trauma to children and elderly residents who live nearby.
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Gumbi also stressed the violence of the rituals, which reportedly include the slaughter of goats and chickens, leaving behind blood, carcasses, and strong odours that linger for days. “We find remains scattered near the river after the weekend. It’s unhygienic and traumatic.”
In a recent development, Gauteng MEC for Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment Vuyiswa Ramokopa visited the residents to hear their concerns. “This is not just about environmental damage, it’s a matter of public dignity and human rights. Every person deserves to live in an area that is safe, clean, and respectful. I fully support this petition and will engage relevant departments to ensure this is addressed properly and lawfully.”
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Ramokopa confirmed that the issue has been prioritised within her office, adding that co-ordinated enforcement across city and provincial departments is essential.
To help Paulshof residents fight for the beloved suburb sign the petition at: https://chng.it/yV7KhqTLGV.
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