Protect yourselves, robbery-hit churches told

MPUMALANGA MEC for Community Safety, Security, and Liaison, Jackie Macie, has called on church leaders across the province to ramp up security measures and protocols to better protect themselves and their congregants.

- JONISAY| MAROMO

Macie was reacting to the recent spate of business robberies that occurred at church services in Bushbuckridge and KwaMhlanga.

“Two business robberies were reported at two separate places of worship in the Calcutta policing precinct. The third robbery was reported at KwaMhlanga during a night vigil on Friday, August 29, at around 11 pm,” the MEC said.

Macie said churches should enhance security measures by implementing steps, including working closely with the police; making arrangements with local security companies, especially for night services; and utilising private security for monitoring premises during services and events.

He also urged churches to install CCTV cameras and alarm systems to deter and detect potential threats, designate a security team or ushers to keep an eye on the congregation and respond to incidents, and conduct risk assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities, such as isolated areas or unsecured entrances.

Churches are also urged to assess the likelihood of robbery or other safety threats based on location, time of day, and other factors.

“The recent attacks are a clear indication of moral decay in our society. Therefore, we must all work together by reporting suspects to the police. What happened in these three robberies is an indication that more still needs to be done to secure our communities,” said Macie.

“Men and women in blue should remain undeterred in their efforts to bring perpetrators to justice.”

Earlier yesterday, IOL reported that police in Mpumalanga are investigating the incident of robbery that occurred at a church in KwaMhlanga at around midnight last week Friday.