By Lehlohonolo Lehana.

The Johannesburg emergency services resumed its search and rescue mission for two people who were swept away during a cleansing ritual.

An 18-year-old woman and a 21-year-old man were swept away during a cleansing ritual at the Kliprivier river in Olifantsvlei on Saturday.

"The search for the missing young people is currently underway along Kliprivier river stream in Olifantsfontein, conducted by our aquatic rescue unit together with the South African Police Service Water Wing," said Joburg EMS spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi on Monday

The incident comes days after the recovery of the body of an 18-year-old boy who drowned while crossing a river in Kliptown.

Mulaudzi urged residents to exercise caution when they are conducting baptism rituals to prevent incidents like this one. "Traditional healers, prophets, and pastors are urged to ensure the safety of congregants while conducting these cleansing or baptism rituals," he said.

Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo said, "The body of the 18-year-old boy who drowned in Soweto was recovered by emergency services. The matter is being handled by the SAPS, we have since opened an inquest docket for further investigation,".