Pastor Paseka "Mboro" Motsoeneng, the self-proclaimed prophet and founder of the Incredible Happenings Church, has made a dramatic claim from behind bars.
While awaiting trial on charges of kidnapping his grandchildren, Mboro asserts that his presence in prison has led to a remarkable transformation: drug use has ceased in his cell block.
Mboro, who appeared in the Palm Ridge magistrate's court on Monday, made the bold statement during a new bail application. The application came despite the postponement of his original case to October, a delay requested by the state to allow for further investigation.
Despite the gravity of the charges against him, Mboro maintains a defiant and optimistic stance. He told the media that he has not been depressed during his time in custody, attributing this resilience to his unwavering faith.
"I was praying. I was not depressed. I was talking to God. The cases we opened are not entertained. My cars are being destroyed," he said.
"The church is burnt down by the family that wants to take the children that were born in my house and that were raised by me and my son."
Mboro's claims of divine intervention extend beyond his own emotional well-being. He asserts that his presence in prison has had a profound impact on the inmates around him, specifically those struggling with drug addiction.
"In the cells, people have given up drugs. God has done wonders," he stated.
While Mboro's claims of a drug-free cell block may be viewed with scepticism by some, his supporters remain unwavering in their belief in his power. Outside the courtroom, a group of his congregation members picketed, demanding his release and holding signs that read "we stand with you", "free Mboro" and "free all fathers". They also sang church hymns, a testament to their faith in their spiritual leader.
The court, however, remains focused on the legal proceedings against Mboro. The case was postponed to the following Monday to allow the state to investigate the new information presented by the defence.
