No bail for Mpumalanga pastor accused of raping teenage congregant – LNN

A pastor accused of raping a 16-year-old girl who came to his home to pray was denied bail when he appeared in the Sabie Magistrate’s Court yesterday.

The 46-year-old pastor, who cannot be identified to protect the teen’s identity, was taken into custody pending his next court appearance on January 6.

This is after the NPA successfully opposed his release on bail. The incident is said to have occurred in October at his residence in Sabie.

“The court found that the suspect had failed to prove the exceptional circumstances that permitted his release on bail. It was determined that his release on bail could cause public disorder. He might interfere with the witnesses and even avoid trial,” said NPA provincial spokesperson Monica Nyuswa.

While ruling on the pastor’s bail application, the court stated that he allegedly abused the girl because he had been entrusted as a spiritual father by his congregation.

The pastor was arrested last month following allegations that the girl had gone to his residence to pray for a wound on her leg.

“When she arrived at the suspect’s residence, the suspect welcomed her, kissed her and pushed her to his bedroom before raping her. The incident came to light after the victim told her friend at school, who also shared the same experience with the victim, and the matter was reported to the police,” Nyuswa explained.

When police arrested the pastor, he was found in possession of a firearm and ammunition, probably without a permit.

The pastor is charged with rape and possession of illegal firearms and ammunition.

Nyuswa said the NPA and the police would work together to ensure that the ongoing investigations are concluded so that the case can go to trial.