A 35-year-old prophet and traditional healer has been arrested by the Tzaneen Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offenses Unit (FCS) and the Mopani Tracking Team for the alleged rape of a 15-year-old girl in Makhwibidung Village. The arrest took place on Monday, 02 June 2025, following a detailed police investigation.
Details of the Incident
According to police reports, the victim’s mother took her daughter to the suspect on Wednesday, 07 May 2025, believing the girl was ill and required the prophet’s healing services. The mother left the teenager in the suspect’s care for the session.
The suspect allegedly told the victim that the ancestors had instructed him to have sexual intercourse with her as part of her healing process. He further claimed that the act would train her to become a sangoma (traditional healer) and warned her to keep it a secret.
Between 11 and 13 May 2025, the victim was reportedly raped multiple times. She later managed to escape, leaving her belongings behind. When her mother realized her daughter had fled, she went to retrieve the items but was allegedly told she needed to pay a sum of money first.
Case Reported and Suspect Arrested
The mother reported the incident to the police on Sunday, 01 June 2025. It was during this process that the victim disclosed the rape allegations. A case was immediately opened, and the docket was transferred to the Tzaneen FCS unit for further investigation.
The suspect was positively identified, arrested, and detained at Maake Police Station. He is scheduled to appear before the Maake Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 04 June 2025, facing charges of rape.
Police investigations are ongoing. Authorities have urged anyone with additional information to come forward as they continue to pursue justice in this case.
