Limpopo spiritual healer arrested for allegedly raping a woman during a cleansing ritual
The woman allegedly attempted suicide after the incident, and she later experienced a mental breakdown and was diagnosed with depression.
A 66-year-old man from Limpopo is accused of raping a client who sought help to perform a spiritual healing ritual in April.
The man was arrested by the Seshego SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS) on Sunday at his residence in Eldorado village, Oudtshoorn, following investigations.
Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba says the victim was one of the suspect’s clients and went to his homestead for spiritual healing.
“The suspect asked his clients if there was anyone in need of a steaming ritual, and the victim volunteered. The victim went to the suspect’s son’s bedroom wearing only a blanket and found the room covered in smoke when she was allegedly raped by the suspect,” he says.
The client left the room wearing the suspect’s jacket but never reported the ordeal until a mental breakdown, depression diagnosis, and suicide attempt.
“The victim was referred to a relevant facility for mental treatment and opened up about the incident. The matter was reported to the local police on June 15 and was transferred to the Seshego FCS for further investigation. The police’s swift reaction and meticulous efforts resulted in the suspect’s apprehension at his residence,” reads the statement.
The man appeared before the Maleboho Periodical Court yesterday in connection with the rape.
Police investigations continue.
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