MKHUHLU, South Africa (BN24) — Police in Mpumalanga have launched a manhunt for three armed suspects who stormed a church during a Sunday service in Mkhuhlu, Calcutta, robbing congregants at gunpoint and fleeing in a stolen vehicle.
According to police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane, the gunmen entered the church while a service was underway on the morning of August 24. Witnesses say the suspects fired shots inside the building before ordering worshippers to lie face down.
Armed with firearms, the men allegedly demanded cellphones, cash, and car keys from churchgoers. They then escaped in a white Volkswagen Polo taken from one of the victims. No injuries were reported, though authorities recovered several spent cartridges from the church floor.
“The suspects, armed with firearms, instructed everyone to lie down. They then robbed the congregants of their cellphones, cash, and car keys,” said Ndubane. “At this stage, no arrests have been made, and the investigation continues.”
The brazen attack has prompted outrage from law enforcement. Acting provincial police commissioner Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi condemned the robbery, calling it a troubling sign of rising violent crime in spaces traditionally considered safe.
“It is deeply concerning that criminals now boldly target places of worship, which should be sanctuaries of peace and safety,” Mkhwanazi said.
Police have issued a public appeal for assistance in tracking down the perpetrators. Anyone with information is urged to contact Lieutenant Colonel Skhumbuzo Ceko at 082 922 9902, the SAPS Crime Stop line at 08600 10111, or submit tips via the MySAPS App. Authorities emphasized that all information will be handled confidentially and callers may remain anonymous.
