Charles Esther
Police in Mpumalanga have launched an investigation after church members were allegedly robbed of their belongings during a service in Mkhuhlu, Calcutta.
Incident During Sunday Worship
The robbery occurred on Sunday, 24 August 2025, at about 11:45 a.m., while congregants were in the middle of worship.
Armed Suspects Storm Church
According to police, three armed suspects stormed into the church and ordered everyone to lie on the floor.
They reportedly robbed the worshippers of cellphones, cash, and car keys before escaping in a white VW Polo belonging to one of the victims.
Gunshots Fired Inside the Church
Witnesses said the suspects fired several shots inside the building.
Fortunately, no one was injured during the incident.
Police later recovered spent cartridges at the scene.
No Arrests Made Yet
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane confirmed that investigations are ongoing.
So far, no arrests have been made.
Police Commissioner Condemns Attack
The Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, condemned the robbery, saying it is troubling that criminals are now targeting places of worship.
He described churches as sanctuaries that should represent peace and safety, not fear.
