Churches in Mpumalanga are being urged to ramp up security protocols to better protect themselves and their congregants.
The call comes from the MEC for community safety, security and liaison, Jackie Macie, in response to a spate of recent robberies at churches in Bushbuckridge, Masoyi and KwaMhlanga during services.
The first robbery occurred on June 14 at about 00:45 at the Moving Ministries of God Church in Numbi during an overnight prayer service. On August 3, a second incident took place where the women of the Pentecost Church were robbed.
A third robbery was reported in Mkhuhlu near Hazyview on August 24 at about noon.
The most recent incident occurred on Friday, August 29, at about 23:00 during a night vigil in KwaMhlanga.
ALSO READ: Mkhuhlu church targeted in second armed robbery this month
Macie described the attacks as a “clear indication of moral decay in our society.” He said churches should enhance security by implementing several key steps, including:
• Working closely with the police and making arrangements with local security companies, particularly during night services.
• Utilising private security to monitor premises during services and events.
• Installing CCTV cameras and alarm systems to deter and detect potential threats.
• Designating a security team or ushers to keep an eye on the congregation and respond to incidents.
• Conducting risk assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities like isolated areas or unsecured entrances.
• Encouraging congregants to report suspicious individuals and activities in and around the church.
ALSO READ: Numbi church members robbed at gunpoint during night prayer
“We must all work together by reporting suspects to the police. What happened in these robberies is an indication that more still needs to be done to secure our communities. The police should remain undeterred in their efforts to bring perpetrators to justice,” Macie said.
In the meantime, the Calcutta police precinct, where two of the churches had been robbed, has begun increasing their visibility during services to ensure safety for the worshippers.
They visited over 20 churches in Marite and Mkhuhlu and will continue to monitor them. Churches in the area are also being encouraged to work with the community policing forums, especially when holding night vigils.
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Tumelo Waga Dibakwane
www.citizen.co.za
