By Ziyah News Network Reporter
ARMED robbers, like hyenas dressed in sheep’s skins, cast off and and exchanged holy garments with dark hearts turning against congregants among whom they had sat with for prayer.
What began as a night of prayer turned into a terrifying ordeal after the armed robbers turned the ZAOGA Forward in Faith Deeper Life Conference in Beitbridge into a horror show.
The attack occurred on Saturday around 3am while pastors and congregants slept at the church premises. Some had travelled from distant areas such as Lutumba for the night virgil at the venue.
A church leader who spoke on condition of anonymity said the robbers first targeted congregants sleeping under a church shade.
“They woke people up and demanded money, but most congregants did not have any cash. They took their phones instead,” she said.
After failing to find money, the robbers moved to Pastor Madzivanyuka’s house, where they forced entry.
“They assaulted him and demanded money, but he did not have any,” the source said.
The robbers then proceeded to another pastor’s house, continuing their search for cash.
However, before they could go further or break into the next house a car arrived at the scene, forcing them to flee.
The suspects escaped with mobile phones, leaving behind shaken victims but no reported serious injuries.
They continued to pray for peace.
The incident has left the church community on the edge, with suspicions the attackers may have had prior knowledge of activities at the conference.
“There is a feeling that maybe someone was monitoring what was happening, especially how offerings are handled,” the source said.
Beitbridge Police District Commanding Officer Chief Supritendent Mesuli Ncube confirmed the robbery and said investigations are underway.
Ncube appealed for information that could assist in identifying the suspects.
“Investigations are underway. We are seeking information from members of the public regarding the identity of the suspects,” he said.
“Anyone with information is urged to report to the nearest police station or contact the Officer-in-Charge Beitbridge Urban on 0772 301 429.” He said