Pastor arrested for alleged rape
The accused was denied bail and his case was postponed to November 17 for a bail application and further SAPS investigations.
STEELPOORT – A 33-year-old pastor, who is also a traditional healer, appeared in the Sekhukhune Magistrate’s Court on a charge of rape on Tuesday.
Lucas Happy Moretsele of Kutullo Village was arrested on Sunday afternoon for allegedly raping a 20-year-old high school pupil in Tubatse.
The accused was denied bail and his case was postponed to November 17 for a bail application and further SAPS investigations.
According to the Limpopo SAPS, the incident allegedly took place during September at the accused’s home. “The victim alleged that on September 18 she visited this pastor and traditional healer for a consultation and in the process, he allegedly raped her. “The victim became confused and terrified by the entire situation.
She realised later that she has been tricked and raped by the man she trusted to heal her,” said Limpopo SAPS spokesperson, Col Moatshe Ngoepe.
Ngoepe added that the victim reported the matter to the police on Saturday November 7 and a case of rape was opened. “The initial investigations started and the suspect was traced and arrested on Sunday.” The provincial commissioner of Limpopo SAPS, Lt Gen Nneke Ledwaba, strongly condemned this incident and mentioned that such behaviour can never be tolerated.
“This is a clear indication that there are some men who are stubborn and refuse to heed the clarion call by all walks of life regarding the scourge of gender-based violence. As the SAPS we will continue to work hard to protect vulnerable women and children within our communities from these sexual predators who take advantage of them because of their social status.” Police investigations continue.
