Church Crime Wave: EFF Emfuleni blasts wave of criminality

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The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in the Emfuleni Sub-Region have condemned what they describe as criminal attacks occurring at various churches in and around Emfuleni.

The uproar comes on the back of two significant security incidents involving churches in Sebokeng Zone 14, illustrating a pattern of targeted criminal activity.

The initial incident occurred on Wednesday, August 5, at the House of Glory, where a group of criminals managed to unlawfully enter the premises and steal an entire sound system.

Following this, on Monday, August 17, Koinonia Bible Church was attacked by armed thugs who threatened church staff with firearms and proceeded to steal sound equipment and visual technology.

The Red Beret sub-regional chairperson, Lehlohonolo Malindi, asserted that such incidents signify a direct attack on places of worship, jeopardising the dignity, safety, and spiritual well-being of our communities.

“To date, there has been no update from the police as to who these criminals are. This level of violence and disregard for human life is unacceptable and must be confronted with urgency,” he added.

Malindi reiterates that an attack on the church is an attack on the body of christ and society at large.

Vital role of churches

He emphasised the intolerance of certain acts within any community, highlighting the vital role of churches in providing spiritual guidance, fostering social cohesion, and contributing to community development.

“We call upon all community members to remain vigilant, to safeguard places of worship, and to report any suspicious activity or individuals to law enforcement agencies without delay.

“Crime thrives when communities remain silent, and together we must ensure that these criminals are brought to justice.

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“We further urge law enforcement to intensify patrols, investigations, and community engagement to ensure that churches and other community institutions are safe from criminal elements,” Malindi remarked.