Prophet is ‘attacked by crocodiles’ and drowns while being baptised in South African river

January 24, 2024

• The man’s remains were found surrounded by crocodiles in the Olifants River 

A man who claimed to be a prophet drowned and was then torn to pieces by crocodiles while being baptised in a South African river.

The victim’s remains were discovered surrounded by crocodiles in the Olifants River in Limpopo on Sunday.

The 48-year-old man from Atok drowned during a prayer ceremony with two others days earlier, according to local media.

As they prayed, ‘one prophet suddenly experienced difficulties and drowned in the crocodile-infested river,’ according to police spokesperson Col Malesela Ledwaba.

‘It is suspected that he was attacked by crocodiles during the baptism ceremony,’ Col Ledwaba added. 

Remains of a 48-year-old man were discovered surrounded by crocodiles in the Olifants River in Limpopo on Sunday (file image)

Police said the man was one of three ‘prophets’ who went to the overflowing river to conduct the service last Sunday.

The other two men searched for the victim but were unable to find him, Times Live reports.

Police chiefs have urged locals to avoid crocodile-infested entering rivers, either to swim or conduct spiritual activities.

The Nile crocodile is the only variety of croc in South Africa and is native to freshwater habitats.

Hundreds of people are killed by the reptile across Africa every year, with many more deaths believed to go unreported. 

– mailonline