Church robbery and kidnap of Ghanaian deacon in South Africa confirmed

The Church of Pentecost in Johannesburg, South Africa, the Ghanaian High Commission has confirmed a brazen robbery and the kidnapping of a Ghanaian deacon. The ordeal transpired on Sunday, October 29, 2023, sending shockwaves through the Ghanaian community in South Africa and beyond.

The assailants, armed and masked, targeted the churchgoers, forcibly confiscating their valuables at gunpoint before abducting a church deacon. The whereabouts of the kidnapped deacon remain unknown, adding a sense of urgency and concern to the situation.

The High Commission of Ghana in South Africa swiftly responded to the distressing incident, issuing a notice on October 30, 2023, to inform the Ghanaian community in South Africa of their active involvement in resolving the crisis. The statement read, “The Commission is working closely with the South African police to ensure the speedy and safe release and return of the victim to his family.” The safety and well-being of the kidnapped deacon are paramount, and efforts are being made to secure his release as soon as possible.

“The South African police are fully focused on this matter and are working diligently to ensure the safe return of our compatriot,” the notice further emphasized, highlighting the cooperation between the Ghanaian authorities and local law enforcement.

In response to the incident, the Ghanaian Mission has also issued a cautionary advisory to all members of the Ghanaian community in South Africa. The advisory urged individuals to take necessary precautions to safeguard their safety and well-being, recognizing the heightened concerns following the church robbery and kidnapping.

The Ghanaian community, both in South Africa and around the world, anxiously awaits updates on the situation, hoping for a swift resolution and the safe return of the kidnapped deacon.

As the investigation continues, the Ghanaian High Commission in South Africa remains committed to supporting the victim’s family and collaborating with local authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community vigilance and safety measures for those residing in foreign countries.