Police have opened an inquest after three people drowned during a church baptism at Wellas River on Sunday morning.

According to a statement from the Mpumalanga SAPS, the incident occurred at about 10:00 behind Extension 22 in Embalenhle, where a congregation had gathered for prayer and baptism.

A 59-year-old woman and two teenagers, aged 17 and 19, entered the river as part of the ceremony. Police said the situation turned tragic when the water level began to rise.

“It is alleged that the adult female lost her footing and attempted to regain balance by holding onto the two teenagers. Unfortunately, all three individuals lost stability and submerged in the water,” said police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane.

The church leader reportedly tried to rescue the victims but was unsuccessful.

Members of the South African Police Service responded to the scene, and a search and rescue team later recovered all three bodies. They were declared dead at the scene.

Police have opened an inquest docket and investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing.

Authorities have urged community members to exercise caution when gathering near rivers and other open water, especially during religious or recreational activities.