Hazelmere, South Africa – A 27-year-old pastor was bitten by a highly venomous Black Mamba while praying near a river in Hazelmere, KwaZulu-Natal, on Saturday morning, February 22, 2025.
At approximately 06:41 AM, a concerned member of the public contacted the Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) Operations Centre, requesting urgent medical assistance. Paramedics were immediately dispatched and located the victim near the Hazelmere Dam wall.
According to the pastor, he was in deep prayer by the river when a large black snake bit him on his left foot. He identified the snake as a Black Mamba, one of the most dangerous snakes in Africa.
Upon examination, the man exhibited symptoms of neurotoxic poisoning, including extensive swelling at the bite site. Despite the severity of the situation, he managed to walk a short distance from the river and sought help from security officers, who promptly contacted RUSA.
Paramedics provided immediate symptomatic treatment before transporting him to a medical facility for further care.
The Black Mamba is known for its lethal venom, which can cause paralysis and respiratory failure if not treated swiftly with antivenom. Prompt medical intervention likely played a crucial role in the pastor’s survival.
