On Tuesday, August 6, 2024, the Incredible Happenings Church in Katlehong, led by controversial Pastor Paseka Mboro, was reportedly burned to the ground. The incident occurred after a group of youths marched to the premises in protest.
The unrest follows the arrest of Pastor Mboro, whose real name is Paseka Motsoeneng, and three others on Monday. They were taken into custody for allegedly forcibly removing two pupils, believed to be Mboro’s grandchildren, from a local school in Katlehong.
According to reports, scores of schoolchildren skipped classes to join community members in the protest. The dispute allegedly centers around maintenance and custody issues following the death of the children’s mother.
A viral video circulating on social media purportedly shows Mboro and several men, including a bodyguard carrying what appears to be a replica rifle, intimidating and harassing teachers at the school. In the footage, Mboro is allegedly seen attacking staff members with a panga, a type of machete.
Law enforcement officials have stated that Mboro and his associates face multiple charges, including assault, reckless handling of a firearm, operating unregistered security services, malicious damage to property, and intimidation.
The burning of the church marks a significant escalation in the community’s response to the incident. Local authorities are investigating the arson and urging calm in the area.
This event highlights the complex interplay of religious leadership, community relations, and the law in South African society. As the situation develops, questions about child custody rights, the role of religious figures in the community, and the appropriate response to such incidents are likely to be at the forefront of public discourse.
Authorities have not yet released statements regarding potential additional charges related to the church burning or plans to address the underlying custody dispute.
