A Samora Machel community leader has condemned the actions of armed men who entered a church during a service and robbed congregants of their belongings and the church’s sound system on Sunday, 7 June.

Crime in Samora Machel remains a concern

The leader, who requested anonymity for fear of harassment, described the robbery as “unholy” and said crime in the area had reached alarming levels.

“It shocked everyone because we regard the church as a safe space. We never expected criminals to rob church members during a service. The church is respected as a holy place. Most people come from Christian families and are taught to respect the church. Where was the conscience of these criminals when they robbed the congregants?” he asked.

He urged law enforcement authorities to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.

Service interrupted and congregants robbed

A video circulating on social media shows congregants singing with microphones before suddenly stopping and taking their seats. Moments later, a man carrying a firearm appears in the church. He can be heard greeting the congregants before instructing them to hand over their cellphones and threatening to shoot them if they did not comply.

Police open business robbery case

Western Cape police spokesperson Sgt Wesley Twigg said Samora Machel police had registered a business robbery case for investigation following the incident.

“According to reports, two armed suspects entered the church building and robbed congregants of their personal belongings and a sound system belonging to the church before fleeing the scene,” said Twigg.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or submit information anonymously through the MySAPS mobile application.

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