KEY POINTS
- Three suspects linked to church robberies appeared in court after a shoot-out with police left one dead and two injured.
- Authorities suspect the group is part of a larger syndicate targeting religious institutions, with burglaries on the rise.
- The case has been postponed to March 28, amid calls for stronger measures to protect vulnerable community spaces.
Three suspects linked to a string of church robberies appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday following a dramatic shoot-out with police earlier this week.
Bonga Neli’s Fernando Pinis, Joao Cata, and Antonio Moyanga face charges of murder and housebreaking after a violent confrontation in Westdene, Johannesburg, left one suspect dead and two others hospitalised.
According to National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane, police acted on intelligence regarding the suspects’ whereabouts. “On arrival at the said location, they found a group of males inside a minibus who shot at them and they returned fire. A chase began and the minibus allegedly lost control and drove into a wall,” she said.
Two suspects reportedly fled on foot, while six others remained in the vehicle. One was fatally wounded in the exchange, and five were arrested—though only three have so far been formally charged.
Timeslive reports that the case has been postponed to March 28 for transfer to the Roodepoort Magistrate’s Court, where further charges related to multiple burglaries at places of worship are expected.
Escalating crime wave targets religious institutions
The arrests of the suspects come amid growing concern over organised crime syndicates targeting churches and other religious sites.
Recent police data indicates a 30% increase in such burglaries over the past year, with criminals often stealing sound equipment, donations, and even sacred artifacts.
Community leaders have called for heightened security measures, while religious groups have urged congregants to remain vigilant.
Police Minister Bheki Cele praised the officers involved, stating, “This operation demonstrates our commitment to dismantling criminal networks that prey on vulnerable institutions.” Meanwhile, security experts warn that syndicates may escalate tactics if police pressure intensifies.
The shoot-out has reignited debates over policing strategies in high-crime areas. While some residents applaud the arrests, others question whether enough is being done to prevent such crimes before they occur. “These criminals are getting bolder—what’s next, robbing funerals?” remarked Thando Mkhize, a local churchgoer.
As investigations continue, authorities are probing possible connections to other unsolved burglaries. The suspects’ alleged involvement in cross-border smuggling operations is also under scrutiny.
