A total of fourteen bodies have been recovered by authorities after at least 15 churchgoers were swept away by floods during a baptism in the Jukskei river in Johannesburg on Saturday.
Sandton Fire Station has confirmed to Eyewitness News that seven bodies were recovered on Sunday after two were found in the river on Saturday.
Authorities continue to search the Bramley Park area for the one person who remains missing.
At least one person who had been swept away during the baptism ritual was rescued by authorities.
“So far we will continue with the search to see whether we can be able to recover more bodies,” said Johannesburg Emergency Services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi.
“Maybe the message to our residents out there is to be cautious as and when they conduct these kinds of rituals — to make sure they exercise caution, they do it in a safe place, and ensure that the safety measures are considered so that we can be able to prevent incidents like these.”
Compiled by Arthur Greene
Pictured above: Screenshot
Image source: Joburg EMS
