Concerns over ritual gatherings along the Paulshof spruit have taken a new turn after leaders from one of the churches using the river responded to complaints raised by residents about noise, animal slaughter, littering and safety risks in the area.

Residents living near the river have previously raised alarm about activities taking place along the banks, alleging that gatherings involving loud prayer, ritual practices, fires, waste dumping and the slaughter of animals have become increasingly common.

They say the situation has worsened over the past few years and that the once peaceful greenbelt has become a source of disturbance and environmental concern.

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During a visit to the site, Fourways Review met with leaders of one of the churches that regularly gathers along the river for spiritual rituals.

The group asked not to be named but confirmed that they have been conducting rituals at the location for more than 11 years.

According to the church leaders, they are aware of the complaints from residents and say they have made attempts to reduce the impact of their activities.

@caxtonjoburgnorth Watch: Church members gather along the Paulshof spruit for a ritual ceremony. Video: Ayanda Ntshingila #Fourways #Church ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

“We know that residents have raised concerns and we have heard their cries. We have tried to make changes where we can. For example, we now come after 10am because police were called several times about noise earlier in the mornings.”

The group acknowledged that some practices observed at the river have raised questions from the community. During the visit, Fourways Review witnessed members changing clothes in the open following rituals with fire hazards.

Responding to this, the church leaders said they will considere measures to improve privacy.

“We will start looking at investing in tents so that people can change after rituals without being exposed,” the leader said.

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Residents have also raised concerns about animal slaughter, fires and littering along the riverbanks. In response, the group said they intend to take greater responsibility for cleaning up after gatherings.

“We do not want to inconvenience anyone. We are simply practising our culture and beliefs. But we will try to clean up ourselves.”

However, the church leaders also noted that their congregation is not the only group using the river for religious gatherings.

“It is difficult for us to commit to everything because we are not the only church that comes here. There are many different groups using the river,” the leader added.

Residents maintain that stronger enforcement of municipal bylaws is needed to manage the use of the river and protect the environment.

City officials have previously indicated that the matter involves several departments and requires a coordinated response.

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