The pastor accused of raping a 14-year-old girl during private prayer sessions, while her mother waited outside
A 34-year-old pastor has been arrested and charged with rape for allegedly sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl during private prayer sessions. The disturbing incidents reportedly took place while the victim’s mother waited outside, unaware of the heinous acts occurring.
The pastor, affiliated with the New Babillon Apostolic Church in Evaton West, Vereeniging, was apprehended by law enforcement officials on Sunday. Following his arrest, he made an appearance at the Sebokeng Regional Court on Monday to face the charges brought against him.
According to Lumka Mahanjana, a spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the alleged assaults occurred on 16 August 2025. The young girl, accompanied by her parents and the pastor, was returning from a spiritual event in Clarens, Free State when the incidents occurred.
Pastor allegedly raped minor at filling station toilet
At a stop at a filling station, the pastor reportedly followed the girl into the restroom and assaulted her while her parents remained outside in the car, unaware of the traumatic experience unfolding inside.
Subsequently, the pastor requested the victim’s mother to bring her daughter to church for private prayer sessions. It is alleged that during these sessions, which occurred multiple times between August 2024 and January 2025, the pastor sexually assaulted the young girl while her mother waited outside.
The abuse came to light when the victim’s sister noticed changes in her behavior and health, leading her to confide in her parents about the assaults. The mother confronted the pastor and reported the incidents to the authorities, resulting in his arrest and subsequent court appearance.
Case postponed to 13 March
The court has postponed the case to 13 March 2025 for a formal bail application, with the state expressing its intention to oppose bail for the accused. The NPA has reiterated its commitment to seeking justice for victims of gender-based violence and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
In a separate incident in November 2024, a 46-year-old pastor from Sabie, Mpumalanga, faced allegations of raping a 16-year-old congregant. The pastor was denied bail after being accused of assaulting the young girl during a prayer session at his residence.
Victim asked for prayer
The victim in the Sabie case sought prayer from the pastor after sustaining a leg injury, only to be subjected to sexual assault in his home. The incident was reported to the authorities after the victim confided in her peers, who had also experienced similar abuses at the hands of the pastor.
These cases underscore the importance of vigilance and accountability in religious settings, emphasizing the need for safeguarding vulnerable individuals from potential harm and exploitation.
