Cele ‘maps way forward’ with Zuurbekom church
Police Minister Bheki Cele met with leaders of the International Pentecostal Holiness Church in Zuurbekom on Sunday.
At least five people died and 40 were arrested after gunmen stormed the church, west of Johannesburg, on Saturday.
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More than 34 firearms, including five rifles, 16 short guns and 13 pistols were also seized.
The violence has been blamed on battles among groups of congregants for leadership of the multi-million-rand church following the death of ‘Comforter’ Glayton Modise in 2016.
Cele’s spokesperson Lirandzu Themba says the minister was briefed on the ongoing feuds at the church.
“The meeting has established a better communication line between the church and the South African Police Service and resolved to maintain this continuously.
“It also mapped a way forward on how the police and the church can work together to ensure the saftey and security of congregants and property of the church.’’