Troublemakers removed from pastor’s in Kenilworth
Mark Richard Chenching, a pastor in Kenilworth, has been in and out of the hospital due to mental illness. Residents claim since Chenching allowed tenants on his premises he began losing it mentally.
RESIDENTS of Kenilworth took matters into their own hands by removing vagrants from a pastor’s house on September 17.
Mark Richard Chenching, a pastor in Kenilworth, has been in and out of the hospital due to mental illness. Residents claim since Chenching allowed tenants on his premises he began losing it mentally.
Community leader Eric Khetho said tenants have made this house their den by smoking drugs and breaking Chenching’s belongings.
“We believe they have been feeding Chenching certain drugs because since they got here he hasn’t been well and I don’t think he still goes church. Us coming here clearly shows we aren’t supporting the acts being performed in Chenching house,” said Khetho.
Tenants are believed to be robbing people out on streets and they also steal and break Chenching’s furniture.
“Neighbours are living in fear because of these tenants who continue stealing people’s belongings. The residents won’t feel at ease until these people are removed,” added Khetho. The COURIER was told by residents Chenching has been in hospital since September 16.
Naomi Mbangula, who presented herself to the COURIER as Chenching’s girlfriend, said she and Chenching aren’t safe anymore because these tenants have turned the place into a smoking harbour.
“I tried removing them, but they didn’t listen. I was threatened and insulted. This house used to be one of the beautiful houses in the area, but today it has turned into something else,” said Mbangula.
Booysens SAPS was present and the tenants vacated the premises. Councillor Faeeza Chame, who was called by residents to come and assist in the matter, said: “The house has definitely turned into a thug den, but at least the community is fighting for their beloved member,” said Chame.
