Armed Robbers Storm Church, Rob Congregants During Service

Police in Mpumalanga have launched a manhunt after three armed robbers stormed a church in Mkhuhlu, Calcutta, on Sunday, August 24, and robbed worshippers at gunpoint during a service.

Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane said the suspects entered the church while a service was underway and ordered congregants to lie down. “The suspects, armed with firearms, instructed everyone to lie down. They then robbed the congregants of their cellphones, cash, and car keys,” Ndubane confirmed.

The robbers escaped in a white VW Polo, which they had stolen from one of the victims. Several shots were fired inside the church, but police confirmed that no one was injured. Spent cartridges were recovered at the scene, and investigations are ongoing.

Acting provincial police commissioner Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi strongly condemned the incident, describing it as a worrying trend in violent crime. “It is deeply concerning that criminals now boldly target places of worship, which should be sanctuaries of peace and safety,” he said.

Police have appealed to the public for any information that may help track down the suspects. Members of the public can contact Lieutenant Colonel Skhumbuzo Ceko on 082 922 9902, call the SAPS Crime Stop line at 08600 10111, or send anonymous tips through the MySAPS App.