HUMAN rights organisations have called on law enforcement authorities to leave no stone unturned in their investigation into religious leader Paseka Motsoeneng, affectionately known as Pastor Mboro.
The groups said the authorities should be decisive when dealing with his case.
This after Mboro was arrested after he entered Matsediso Primary School in Katlehong, East Rand and forcefully removed his grandchildren after his son was denied access to them on Monday.
Mboro allegedly removed the two children while wielding a panga and an automatic rifle. He was seen swinging a panga wildly in the direction of the school’s staff, as the men exited the school with two children believed to be Mboro’s grandchildren.
Mboro and other accused this week appeared at the Palm Ridge Magistrates Court in connection with the incident.
The Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission) said it was regrettable that a religious leader of Mboro’s stature could not seek better alternatives that would have embodied the values that represent a religious leader.
The commission said the trauma caused to children and educators could linger for many months and years to come, especially as the incident took place on the school premises, which is supposed to be a safe place for them.
“We call upon the leaders in that church to take accountability to protect the reputation of that institution. We further call upon SAPS to leave no stone unturned in their investigation to ensure the safety of the affected learners and educators,” said the commission.
Mboro’s church was also set alight following the incident, and the CRL Rights Commission also called on community members to refrain from destroying religious structures, adding that the prosecution team should deal with this matter in a way that will ensure that justice is seen to be done for those affected by the incident.
The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s portfolio committee on community safety also called on law enforcement authorities to act decisively when dealing with the case.
The committee said Mboro’s case should be a harsh example to anyone who thinks they can act with impunity by threatening and endangering the lives of others.
“The committee is appalled by the conduct of Mboro, who as a pastor is expected to be displaying the highest ethical and moral standards in society. The committee unequivocally condemns any form of violence, especially when perpetrated by individuals in positions of trust and spiritual leadership,” said chairperson Bandile Masuku.
Masuku added that nothing could justify the violent actions of Mboro, particularly in a schooling environment where children expect to be taught in a safe and secure setting.
Meanwhile, the DA has called on the Gauteng Department of Education’s MEC Matome Chiloane to urgently enhance security measures at schools to ensure the safety of learners, teachers and staff.
DA Gauteng spokesperson for Education Micheal Waters said: “The DA condemns the appalling occurrence and demands that Pastor Mboro and his associates be held accountable for their actions. While we note MEC Chiloane's media statement, we challenge him to act decisively against these school invaders rather than utilising the incident as a public relations exercise.”
In his statement, Chiloane said his department was committed to ensuring that justice is served in this matter.
“We will not tolerate any acts of violence or intimidation and will take all necessary measures to protect our learners and educators,” said Chiloane.
Mboro is facing a range of charges linked to the storming of the school with a panga and a rifle.
His case has been postponed to August 16, for bail application.
manyane.manyane@inl.co.za