Three killed, five injured after lightning strike during night church service in Limpopo

Three people were killed and five others injured after lightning struck a church tent during an overnight service in the Senwabarwana policing area in Limpopo in the early hours of Sunday.

Police have opened an inquest docket to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Police said the incident occurred at about 01:00 on 14 December 2025 at Radimana village, where a church congregation had gathered for a night vigil inside a tent erected in an open field.

According to Limpopo police spokespersons, Malesela Ledwaba, heavy rain and thunderstorms were experienced in the area when lightning struck inside the tent while congregants were singing.

Eight people, aged between 12 and 56, sustained injuries and were taken to a nearby healthcare facility for treatment. Three victims one man and two women were certified dead on arrival.

Ledwaba said the deceased were identified as Ribson Mothemane, 46, Mosibudi Mokgobu, 44 and Glenda Modjadji Ntjana, 36. All are residents of Sefihlampyana village.

He said the remaining five injured congregants were later transferred to a local hospital, where they are receiving medical care.

Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe said she was deeply saddened by the deaths and urged communities to be cautious during the rainy season.

“I encourage members of the community to take precautionary measures, especially during this rainy season,” Hadebe said.