Ghana’s SA mission working to get kidnapped deacon released after Pentecost Church robbery

Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa is collaborating with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to secure the release of a deacon of the Church of Pentecost (CoP) in that country who was kidnapped after armed robbers invaded the church during an ongoing service.

A worrying footage emerged online on Sunday, October 29, 2023, which shows members of the Johannesburg branch of the Ghanaian CoP being robbed of their belongings at gunpoint before the deacon was kidnapped.

A statement issued by the High Commission of Ghana in South Africa on Monday, October 30 said efforts were underway to ensure the deacon’s safe release and return to his family.

“The Mission is presently working with the Church in cooperation with the South Africa Police Service (SAPS) to ensure the speedy and safe release and return of the victim to his family. Kindly note that the South African Police is fully focused on the matter and is working hard to ensure the safe return of our compatriot,” the statement said in part.

While promising to give further updates on the development subsequently, the High Commission admonished Ghanaians in South Africa to be security conscious.

“Mission wishes to advise all members of the Ghanaian community to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and wellbeing. Mission will update the Community of any further developments related to the case,” it added.

As captured in the viral footage, a man of God is seen preaching to the church’s congregation when the bandits stormed the chapel and ordered everyone to lie on the floor, and they did. The armed men then went around and collected their belongings amid cries by frightened babies.

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