What was meant to be a peaceful night of prayer turned into a terrifying ordeal for worshippers at The Moving Ministries of God Church in Numbi, Mpumalanga. In the early hours of Saturday, while congregants gathered for an all-night prayer service, five masked men stormed the church, armed with pistols.
Wearing balaclavas, the intruders ordered everyone to stay still as they took 11 cellphones, two church amplifiers, and the keys to the pastor’s car. The vehicle, a white Audi Q3 with registration number KFM 302 MP, was used to escape the scene and hasn’t been recovered yet. Police are currently working with Cartrack to locate it.
Lt-Col Jabu Ndubane, the police spokesperson, confirmed that while no shots were fired and no one was physically harmed, the emotional impact on the congregants was significant.
Acting provincial police commissioner, Maj-Gen Zeph Mkhwanazi, expressed his concern over the growing trend of criminals targeting places of worship.
“We grew up believing the house of the Lord is sacred. It’s heartbreaking to see that even churches are no longer spared. We urge communities to be alert, especially during late-night services,” he said.
Police have opened a case of business robbery, and investigations are ongoing. So far, no arrests have been made.
Anyone who may have information that could help identify or locate the suspects is encouraged to reach out to Detective Captain David Hlatshwayo at 072 233 7530.