Police in Thohoyandou have arrested a 40-year-old pastor in connection with the alleged rape of a 14-year-old girl at a church in Sibasa.
According to reports, the incident occurred on 09 July 2025, when the suspect allegedly called the minor to the church premises. Upon arrival, the victim found the pastor alone in the church office. It is alleged that the suspect locked the door, forced the victim to perform sexual acts, and then repeatedly raped her. The pastor reportedly instructed the girl to remain silent about the assault.
The victim courageously disclosed the ordeal to her family on Saturday, 19 July 2025, prompting them to immediately alert the authorities. A rape case was opened and investigated by the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit.
The suspect was arrested today and is set to appear before the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 21 July 2025, to face rape charges.
