A RECENT video of congregants being robbed at a New Brighton church in Gqeberha has left Nelson Mandela Bay Metropole residents living in constant fear due to the escalating crime statistics in the area.
The incident, which occurred at around 19:20 on August 5, at Assemblies of God in New Brighton, saw four armed men enter the church, fire a gunshot in the air, and rob congregants of their personal belongings, including four cell phones and a laptop, before fleeing the scene.
Police spokesperson, Captain Andre Beetge confirmed the incident, and Lieutenant Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa assured that police would intensify visibility around churches and ensure public safety. Mawisa urged congregants to be vigilant, safeguard their valuables, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
“We can advise the congregants to be vigilant at all times and safeguard their valuables to avoid being targets. Moreover, not to carry large amounts of cash in their possession. The seasoned investigators will continue with the investigation and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.”
Meanwhile, a school award ceremony held at a church in Mhlanga Street, NU12, Motherwell, was disrupted by four armed male suspects who stormed the premises, firing two shots into the ceiling. The suspects demanded valuables, making off with 30 cellphones, a laptop, audiovisual equipment, and two vehicles – a VW Polo and VW Tiguan.
“We condemn this brazen act of violence and are working tirelessly to apprehend the suspects,” said Captain Andre Beetge of SAPS Motherwell. “Fortunately, no one was injured during the incident. We urge anyone with information to come forward and assist us in bringing these perpetrators to justice.”
A business robbery case has been opened at SAPS Motherwell, and investigations are ongoing.
In a separate incident, the municipality has considered deploying former military combatants in crime hot spots across the Bay. Member of the Mayoral Committee for Safety and Security, Councillor Stag Mitchell, emphasised that involving the military would be a serious move, requiring thorough discussions and absolute certainty.
“I personally think it would be awesome if the South African National Defence Force would be deployed, but such a decision would need proper discussions, and for every decision maker to be absolutely sure, because remember, the military is serious business. They don’t play games; they don’t ask questions. They are a unit that gets sent out for wars, so for them, this is war,” said Mitchell.
To combat high crime rates, the Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene, and other officials, have taken to the streets, conducting operations in problematic areas. Recent efforts include high-visibility patrols in Gelvandale, KwaDwesi, and Motherwell, as well as liquor outlet compliance checks, firearm compliance checks, stop and search operations, blue light patrols, vehicle checkpoints, and search warrants executed at houses in Gelvandale.
These operations have resulted in the arrest of 70 suspects for various crimes, including eight for illegal drug possession. Two unlicensed firearms and ammunition were also confiscated. Additionally, 69 suspects were arrested for crimes ranging from attempted murder to stock theft, and 11 motorists were arrested for driving under the influence.
Mene reiterated that police are dedicated to proactive measures to secure citizens’ safety, warning criminals that “playtime is over.”
Mene emphasised that success may not be measured in arrests alone, but rather in prevention, and that police will continue to work tirelessly to ensure public safety.
The municipality’s efforts to combat crime have been ongoing, with various initiatives aimed at reducing crime rates.
However, the recent incidents have highlighted the need for increased measures to ensure public safety.
Residents of Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. The police are committed to working with the community to reduce crime and ensure a safer environment for all.
