A self-proclaimed prophet met a tragic end when he drowned and was subsequently torn apart by crocodiles during a baptism ceremony in the Olifants River, Limpopo, South Africa, Daily Mail reported. 

The 48-year-old man from Atok, who identified as a prophet, lost his life during a prayer ceremony with two others, leading to the horrifying incident.

According to police spokesperson Col Malesela Ledwaba, during the prayer session, one of the prophets faced difficulties and drowned in the crocodile-infested river. 

Authorities suspect that he was attacked by crocodiles during the baptism ceremony. The remains of the victim were discovered surrounded by crocodiles on Sunday.

The incident involved three prophets conducting the service in the overflowing river, and the victim’s companions were unable to locate him after he drowned. 

Local police have issued warnings against entering crocodile-infested rivers for both recreational and spiritual activities. 

The Nile crocodile, the sole crocodile variety in South Africa, poses a significant threat to human safety, resulting in numerous fatalities annually across the continent, with many incidents going unreported.