By OBAKENG MAJE
Two suspects were arrested for arson and being in possession of suspected stolen property at Kgabalatsane village on 30 May 2024. This comes after the community members allegedly set alight a house belonging to a local church pastor after accusing him of kidnapping.
The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Col Amanda Funani said the community members alleged that the pastor kidnapped and kept children at his house. Funani alleged that 300 members of the community, gathered in front of the church at Kgabalatsane village, in Hebron, near Brits on 30 May 2024, demanded the release of the children.
“The police consequently found three children and handed them over to their parents, who denied the alleged kidnapping. The police escorted the pastor to the Hebron 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. Subsequent to 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 Magistrate’s Court on 3 June 2024,” she said.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, commended the police for their swift reaction that led to the arrest. Kwena urged the public to allow investigations to unfold and refrain from taking the law into their own hands.
“We urge the community members to report criminal activities to the police,” he said.
The Guardian 