Police have confirmed the arrest of a fifth suspect in connection with Pastor Paseka Motsoeneng Mboro’s dramatic and dangerous actions at Matshidiso Secondary School in Katlehong.
Mboro demanded the release of his two grandchildren in Grade R and Grade 2, against their maternal grandmother’s orders.
While Mboro and four other suspects are expected to appear before the court in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni, on Wednesday, various organisations and government bodies demand that he be dealt with harshly.
The five suspects face charges of assault, reckless firearm handling, unregistered security services, intimidation, and property damage. One of the suspects was also arrested for assaulting the police station commander.
The South African National Christian Forum (SANCF) has condemned and distanced itself from Mboro’s actions.
In a statement, SANCF president Bishop Marothi Mashashane said the organisation would never defend or promote such behaviour by a religious leader.
“It is unfortunate to see a church leader resorting to violence, especially in front of young children. This should be dealt with harshly.
“We further condemn the burning of Mboro’s church, allegedly by protesting learners on Tuesday morning,” he said.
Learners from seven secondary schools in Katlehong gathered at the Katlehong North Police Station on Tuesday, demanding the release of the maternal grandmother – one of the five arrested suspects.
While the station commander was addressing them, dissatisfied with the explanation, members of the group of learners went to the prophet’s church and burned it to the ground.
The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety also commented on Mboro’s actions.
Committee spokesperson Thebe Khumalo said no form of action can justify his violent behaviour, particularly in a school environment.
“We are calling on law enforcement authorities to make Mboro’s case a harsh example to anyone who thinks they can act with impunity by threatening and endangering the lives of others,” he said.
Steve Mabona, spokesperson for the Gauteng Department of Education, confirmed that the children have been placed in the care of their paternal grandmother.
“We are finalising the process with the Department of Social Development, which will mediate and offer counselling for those affected and determine where the children will be placed going forward,” he said.
Pictured above: Officials at the scorched site of Mboro’s Incredible Happenings Church.
