Church robbery suspect caught on livestream video, remains behind bars

THE man allegedly seen in a viral video walking into a Samora Machel church with a firearm while congregants were worshipping will remain behind bars after making his first appearance in the Athlone Magistrate’s Court yesterday.

- LILITA GCWABE

Yanga Ngayi, who was represented by Legal Aid, is one of five suspects arrested in connection with the robbery at AFM Jericho City of Praise Church.

The court appearance followed the June 7 robbery, when an armed man entered the church during the Sunday service. The congregation was livestreaming the service on social media at the time. The State told the court that Ngayi was allegedly linked to the incident after being identified online.

Ngayi is alleged to have entered the church with a firearm and demanded cellphones, money and church equipment, including musical speakers.

The State also told the court that there were allegedly two individuals waiting outside the church at the time of the robbery.