Katlehong people stood up for their kids in Matsediso primary school during today.
The Executive Mayor of the City of Ekurhuleni, Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, has called for calm as the popular self-proclaimed prophet, Pastor Paseka “Mboro” Motsoeneng, along with four other suspects, is set to appear in court. The group faces charges of violence and intimidation following a tumultuous event at Matsediso Primary School in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni.
The suspects will appear before the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court to address multiple charges, including assault, reckless handling of a firearm, unauthorized provision of security services, malicious damage to property, and intimidation. According to Journals and posts, these accusations arise from a heated dispute that turned violent, garnering widespread attention.
In an interview with, Mayor Xhakaza expressed his disappointment over the violent occurrences. “We were shocked, and really we are calling for calm because the pastor is a leader of a church – a very important institution in our society. A lot is affected out of our churches and church leadership,” he remarked. Xhakaza emphasized the importance of schools as safe spaces for learning and condemned the violence, stating that family disputes should be resolved through established, peaceful mechanisms.
The incident, which took place on school grounds, reportedly stemmed from a family conflict over the custody of Motsoeneng’s grandchildren. The dispute arose following the death of the children’s mother in April, creating tension between the paternal and maternal sides of the family. On Monday, Pastor Motsoeneng, accompanied by two men armed with a panga and a rifle, entered the school premises, leading to a fierce confrontation.
Teaching staff attempted to shield the learners from the armed men, but despite their efforts, the children were dragged out of the school amid scenes of chaos and distress. Videos of the altercation, which showed the children crying hysterically, quickly went viral, causing outrage in the community.
In response to the incident, community members and learners retaliated by destroying the premises of Motsoeneng’s Incredible Happenings Church. The church’s large white marquee, used for weekly services, was set ablaze by angry protesters from various schools. This act of arson underscored the community’s frustration and the depth of the conflict.
Mayor Xhakaza praised the swift response of the Department of Education, which intervened promptly to address the situation and ensure the safety and well-being of the school community. “We are very happy with how the Department of Education has swiftly responded by making sure that they are available and they do provide the necessary intervention,” Xhakaza said, reaffirming his support for the teachers, school governing body, and learners affected by the incident.
As the court proceedings unfold, the mayor’s appeal for calm highlights the broader societal implications of the case. The involvement of a prominent religious leader and the ensuing violence have sparked a significant public discourse on the role of religious institutions, community safety, and the appropriate handling of familial disputes.
The case against Pastor Motsoeneng and his co-accused will likely continue to draw attention as it progresses, with the community and broader society keenly watching the outcomes and seeking resolution to the deeply troubling events that transpired.
