Sangoma dies during ritual in Heidelberg underground tunnel
Emergency services launched a major search after a sangoma failed to resurface from an underground tunnel near Life Ministries Church. Despite extensive efforts, the operation ended in tragedy, with authorities now investigating.
Emergency services were dispatched on December 13 after a sangoma entered an underground tunnel near Life Ministries Church in Heidelberg and failed to return.
Rescue teams were alerted when concerns were raised that the individual was trapped inside the tunnel. Several volunteer rescue units, including M03, FR01, FR02, FR04, FR05, FR07, FR08, and FR09, initiated a coordinated search operation.
As the operation continued, police, the SAPS Diving Unit, SAPS Ekurhuleni K9 Search and Rescue, and Gauteng Provincial Emergency Services joined the effort.
Despite the extensive efforts by all role players, the search was downgraded from a rescue operation to a recovery operation.
The SAPS, SAPS Water Police, and SAPS Ekurhuleni K9 and Rescue recovered the body.
The GPG paramedics declared the individual deceased on the scene. Members of the spiritual community conducted traditional rites following the recovery.
These rituals were performed in accordance with cultural practices to honour the deceased and bring closure after the incident.
The identity of the deceased has not yet been released, and police have opened an investigation into the circumstances of the incident.
