Ritual activities at Morninghill Koppie spark concern among locals
The fires, according to Humphreys, are part of rituals performed by worshippers, who light fires during their ceremonies.
Morninghill residents have voiced ongoing concerns regarding noise disturbances caused by worshippers on Morninghill Koppie (the mountain).
In recent weeks there have been numerous fires believed to have been started by worshippers on the mountain.
“Since I raised the alarm and said, ‘No, this is too many fires all at once,’ there haven’t been any more.
“But these fires were likely related to the rituals performed by the worshippers, which have often gotten out of control,” explained Ward 20 Clr Jill Humphreys.
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The fires, according to Humphreys, are part of rituals performed by worshippers, who light fires during their ceremonies.
“I don’t know to what extent it’s deliberate. The residents on Fouchee Terrace, which is the top road there on Morninghill, are constantly being disturbed.
“It’s not just the fires; it’s the noise, the banging of drums, the screaming, and even animal sacrifices.
“This happens right through the night, and families with children are affected. As much as we need to be careful and respectful, this has become a real problem,” added the councillor.
Residents have echoed similar frustrations. One resident who lives on Fouchee Terrace, said, “The major issue is the gatherings, where there’s loud screaming and banging of drums.
“It disturbs us early in the morning, throughout the day while we work and study, and into the night from 21:00 until 05:00. It’s worst during the warmer months when they gather in larger numbers,” she explained.
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The disturbances are not limited to noise and fire hazards.
The resident shared the disruptive activities, noting, “We’ve seen the bodies of animals, possibly goats or sheep, dragged up the mountain. There’s also nude bathing as part of the rituals, which is done in full view of our homes.
“They leave fires burning, which has caused at least three or four wildfires on the koppie, displacing wildlife like owls and guinea fowl.”
The situation has become unbearable for residents, many of whom work from home and struggle with the noise.
“You can’t sleep in the warmer months because of the drumming, screaming, and revving engines,” she shared.
She said they have tried getting the EMPD involved without much help.
“When EMPD does arrive, they don’t seem sure of what action to take, and there’s been no enforcement of the laws against illegal fires, littering, or the gatherings.”
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Despite a signboard warning against illegal worshipping and fires, it has faded to the point where it’s no longer effective.
Residents have explained that the disturbances are not just a weekend occurrence but also during the day, especially during warmer months.
Concerns also include busloads of people who park on the verge of the street and the drumming and singing that continues until morning.
By the time of going to print both City of Ekurhuleni and EMPD had not provided comment.
