Ceremonial rituals including animal sacrifices are becoming commplace along the Braamfontein and Sandspruit riverbanks.
This is according to concerned Paulshof residents, who are demanding urgent intervention from Johannesburg city and provincial authorities.
Residents say the weekend ceremonies begin in the early hours with loud drumming and chanting, and are accompanied by activities they consider disturbing and unsafe.
This includes public nudity, animal sacrifices, large open fires, and the dumping of waste into the rivers, writes the Fourways Review.
“We are witnessing shocking scenes, people walking around nude in broad daylight, the slaughtering of animals near homes, and fires burning for hours,” said resident Albert Gumbi, who is also the former chairperson of the Paulshof Residents and Ratepayers Association
“This is no longer about cultural freedom; it’s about basic public health, safety, and decency.”
The petition
Complaints from concerned Paulshof residents have been lodged with the JMPD, as well as the Environmental Health Directorate.
An online petition meanwhile has been circulating among locals, claiming that the riverbanks have become unregulated areas where by-laws are ignored.
The Paulshof community are also worried about the potential for disease outbreaks, and the emotional impact the animal sacrifices may have on children and elderly people living nearby.
“We find [animal] remains scattered near the river after the weekend,” Gumbi added. “It’s unhygienic and traumatic.”
In response, Gauteng MEC for Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Vuyiswa Ramokopa, recently visited the community to hear to residents’ concerns firsthand.
“This is not just about environmental damage, it’s a matter of public dignity and human rights,” said Ramokopa.
“Every person deserves to live in an area that is safe, clean, and respectful. I fully support this petition and will engage relevant departments to ensure this is addressed properly and lawfully.”
Have you experienced these rituals in your area?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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