Methodist Pastor Arrested During Church Service in Gqeberha

By Phumlani Saul

A dramatic arrest of a Methodist pastor during a Sunday church service in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, has sparked widespread debate after a video of the incident went viral on social media platforms on Sunday.

The footage, which has been viewed thousands of times within hours, shows uniformed police officers entering a church while a sermon was in progress.

The pastor, whose name had not been officially released at the time of publication, was addressing the congregation when officers approached the pulpit and informed him that he was under arrest. The service was abruptly interrupted as shocked congregants looked on.

According to eyewitnesses, the arrest took place calmly but caused visible distress among church members. Some congregants can be heard in the video expressing confusion and concern, while others questioned why the arrest could not have been carried out after the service had concluded.

Police confirmed that the arrest was linked to an ongoing investigation, but declined to provide full details, citing legal processes. A police spokesperson said the timing of the arrest was operational and based on the availability of officers, adding that no one was above the law, regardless of position or place.

“The police acted within the scope of the law,” the spokesperson said. “We are aware of public concerns regarding the manner and timing of the arrest, and these will be addressed through the appropriate channels.”
The Methodist Church of Southern Africa released a brief statement acknowledging the incident and calling for calm and respect for due process.

“The church notes with deep concern the arrest of one of our ministers during a worship service,” the statement read. “We urge our members and the public to allow the legal process to unfold while we seek clarity on the matter.”

The incident has ignited a broader conversation online about the balance between law enforcement duties and respect for religious spaces. Many social media users described the arrest as disrespectful and insensitive, arguing that churches should be treated as sacred spaces. Others defended the police, stating that the law must be enforced regardless of setting.

Legal analysts say arrests in places of worship are not illegal but are generally avoided unless deemed necessary. “There is no specific law preventing an arrest in a church,” said one legal expert. “However, police are expected to exercise discretion to maintain public order and avoid unnecessary disruption.”

Community leaders in Gqeberha have also weighed in, calling for dialogue between religious institutions and law enforcement to prevent similar incidents in the future. Some have urged authorities to consider alternative approaches that respect community sensitivities while upholding the law.

As the video continues to circulate, the pastor is expected to appear in court soon, where the charges against him will be formally presented. Until then, the incident remains a powerful reminder of how quickly moments captured on camera can spark national debate, raising complex questions about justice, respect, and the role of social media in shaping public opinion.