Minister in Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshaveni has warned communities not to take the law into their own hands.

The incident that took place in Katlehong, involving the burning of a church by local residents following a dispute with self-proclaimed prophet Paseka ‘Mboro’ Motshoeneng, has led to the authorities making several arrests. Ntshaveni, who spoke to the press after a recent cabinet meeting, stressed the crucial need for collaboration with law enforcement agencies to tackle criminal activities effectively.

He strongly denounced any form of threats directed towards students and educators. The Department of Basic Education has pledged to work hand in hand with the police force to ensure the security and well-being of all schools within the region.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community safety and the role that both citizens and authorities play in maintaining peace and order. It highlights the significance of proactive measures in preventing such unfortunate events from occurring in the future. By fostering a culture of cooperation and vigilance, communities can create a safer environment for everyone.

Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza has warned residents not to engage in acts of violence following the looting and burning of a church in Katlehong on Tuesday. 

Katlehong community members have resorted to extreme measures by setting ablaze a church belonging to Pastor Mboro, also known as Paseka Motsoeneng. This drastic action followed alarming reports of Pastor Mboro and his security team allegedly intimidating teachers and students at Matshediso Primary School. A disturbing video circulating on various social media platforms captures the pastor wielding a machete within the school premises, instilling fear among onlookers.

In response to the escalating tensions, local authorities, spearheaded by Xhakaza, are diligently working towards restoring tranquility within the community and preventing any potential flare-ups of violence. The mayor, in a strong statement, unequivocally condemns all forms of violence, regardless of the instigator, emphasizing that acts of vigilantism are unlawful and should not be tolerated under any circumstances. As the situation unfolds, law enforcement has apprehended five individuals in connection with the incident, although there remains uncertainty surrounding Pastor Mboro’s direct involvement.

The group is set to appear before a court of law on Wednesday for further proceedings and clarification on their roles in the disruptive events. The gravity of the situation is underscored by the urgent need for calm and cooperation among all parties involved to avoid further unrest and ensure the safety and well-being of the community at large.

Five in court for violent scenes at Kathlehong school

Five suspects are set to appear in the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday for allegedly storming a primary school in Kathlehong with machetes.

Paseka ‘Mboro’ Motsoeneng, head of the Church of Incredible Happenings, is seen leading a small group of men, one holding what appears to be a rifle, as they storm the primary school southeast of Johannesburg.

Provincial authorities said the children he removed were his grandchildren, who are at the centre of a custody battle after their mother passed away.

Police initially arrested four people — but not Motsoeneng — for intimidation and violence.

Students, reportedly angered at what appeared to be preferential treatment reserved for the pastor, then marched on Motsoeneng’s church in protest.

Housed in a large marquee, the church was set on fire and then looted.

Police later arrested a fifth person but declined to say if it was Motsoeneng. A replica firearm and the pangas used in the attack were confiscated.

“I am absolutely incensed by this attack on our schools, staff and learners,” education minister Siviwe Gwarube said on X.

“No one — absolutely no one — should break into schools with weapons interrupting teaching and learning time and terrorising children.”

Motsoeneng, self-styled prophet and televangelist with a love of luxury cars, is said to have thousands of followers in South Africa.

He claims to perform miracles and once said he took photos during a visit to heaven.

The church of a South African preacher was burnt to the ground Tuesday amid local outrage after he stormed a school outside Johannesburg with machetes and forcibly removed his grandchildren.

Police arrested five people after a video clip that went viral showed the controversial Pentecostal pastor threatening school staff with panga blades on Monday and removing the young children.