A 46-year-old Mpumalanga pastor accused of raping a teenage girl, who is a congregant, has been denied bail.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said they successfully opposed the bail application of the pastor in the Sabie Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.
NPA provincial spokesperson Monica Nyuswa said the pastor is accused of raping the 16-year-old congregant at his home in Sabie last month.
“The court felt that the accused failed to prove the exceptional circumstances permitting his release on bail,” explained Nyuswa.
“It found that his release on bail might cause public disorder, might interfere with the witnesses and he might even evade trial.”
The NPA said when handing down judgment in the bail application the court heard that the accused took advantage of the victim as he was entrusted as a spiritual father by his congregation.
Nyuswa said it is alleged the victim went to the pastor’s home to pray for a wound on her leg.
“When she arrived at the accused's place of residence, the accused welcomed her, kissed her and pushed her to his bedroom before raping her.”
The NPA said the incident came to light, when the victim told her friends at school.
The matter was thereafter reported to police.
“During his arrest, a firearm and ammunition were found in his place.”
In addition to rape the pastor is facing charges of possession of a firearm and ammunition.
“Going forward the NPA together with the police will work together to ensure that the outstanding investigation is getting finalised and transfer the matter to the trial court,” said Nyuswa.
The matter was postponed to January 2025.
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