Picture: Supplied
Faizel Patel – 10/07/2020
At least five people have been killed during a hostage situation at the International Pentecostal Holiness Church in Zuurbekom in Westonaria, west of Johannesburg.
It’s understood the incident on Saturday comes after a protracted leadership battle that dates back to 2016 after the church’s late leader Glayton Modise’s death.
Police say a group of armed people came to the place of worship at 3am and allegedly attacked those who were inside the church indicating that they taking over the premises.
Spokesperson Vishnu Naidoo says police are investigating the possibility that the attack may been fueled by a feud between conflicted parties of the church.
“Four people were found shot and burnt to death in a car, while a fifth victim, a security guard was also fatally shot in his car while he was apparently attending to this complaint.”
Naidoo says police have arrested over 40 suspects including six people who have been taken to hospital.
“Among those arrested are members of SAPS, SANDF, JMPD and the Department of Correctional Services.”
Naidoo says over 34 firearms including five rifles, 16 short guns and 13 hand guns have been seized.
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