South African police are on the hunt for suspects who robbed congregants during a church service in New Brighton on Monday night.
The incident, which saw those in attendance dive for cover as gunshots echoed through the church, has left many worshippers traumatized.
A video that was seemingly taken during the commotion has been doing the rounds on social media.
The robbery happened at around 19:20 at Assemblies of God in New Brighton.
Police spokesperson said four armed men entered the church and fired a gunshot in the air.
The suspects robbed congregants of their personal belongings and stole an undisclosed amount of money from the victims before fleeing the scene.
Four cell phones and a laptop were among the items stolen.
According to a victim, Mazanti, he noticed a commotion at the back of the church at around 19:20 just as the pastor was about to finish his sermon.
When he turned to look he noticed a man walking to the front of the church, holding a gun.
Congregants frantically fell to the floor and started to cry and pray when the man fired a gunshot.
Mazantsi said the man and three others started to search people and stole their belongings.
In the commotion, another gunshot was fired.
Mazantsi said everyone involved was grateful that there were no fatalities and confirmed that the revival services would continue.
A case of business robbery was opened and is being investigated by SAPS New Brighton.
Watch video below:
Congregants robbed during a church service at the weekend in New Brighton,
Gqeberha.Shots fired.#CrimeWatch pic.twitter.com/43ZXQN9ZqI
— Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) August 6, 2024