Potchefstroom – Hebron Police have arrested two suspects for arson after a pastor’s house was set alight.
The pastor was accused of kidnapping children and holding them at his house against their will.
About 300 community members gathered in front of the church at Kgabalatsane village, Hebron near Brits on Thursday, 30 May 2024, and demanded the release of the children.
“According to information at our disposal, members of the community accused the pastor of kidnapping and keeping children at his house,” said police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Funani.
“Police consequently found three children and handed them to their parents who denied the alleged kidnapping.
“The police escorted the pastor to the Police Station after the angry mob threatened to assault him.
“However, the Police were later called and informed that the pastor’s house was burning.”
After the incident, two suspects aged, 19 and 54, were arrested for arson and possession of suspected stolen property.
They are expected to appear before the Ga-Rankwua Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 3 June 2024.
The Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena commended the police for their swift reaction that led to the arrest.
He urged the public to allow investigations to unfold, refrain from taking the law into their own hands, and report criminal activities to the police.
