At least nine people were killed while eight others are still missing in South Africa after they were swept away by a flash flood along the Jukskei river in Johannesburg, rescue officials announced on Sunday.
Authorities revealed that two bodies were recovered on Saturday, in addition to seven bodies found when the rescue mission was resumed on Sunday morning.
The victims were taking part in religious rituals along the river on Saturday, according to officials.
On his part, Johannesburg Emergency Services spokesman Robert Mulaudzi said officials continually warn residents about the dangers of conducting the rituals along the river.
“We have been receiving a lot of rain on the city of Johannesburg in the last three months and most of the river streams are now full. Our residents, especially congregants who normally practice these kinds of rituals, will be tempted to go to these river streams,” Mulaudzi told a news briefing.
“Our message for them is to exercise caution as and when they conduct these rituals,” he added.
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