SEBOKENG – A bishop accused of raping a teenage congregant has been granted bail of R5000 by the Sebokeng Regional Court. The bail application was granted on April 7.

The bishop has been incarcerated for over a month since his arrest on March 2 at his home in Golden Gardens. Police spokesperson Constable Thulisile Msibi confirmed the arrest.

Spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Lumka Mahanjana, said the abuse of the teenager came to light after the victim developed infections and confided in her sister, who informed their parents.

Mahanjana said on several occasions between August 2024 and January 2025, its alleged that the pastor would rape the girl during sessions while her mother waited outside. The mother confronted the pastor and subsequently reported the matter to the police.

The bail of the bishop has divided members of the community, with some celebrating his return from prison, while others have shared their sympathy with the victim and the family.

The victim’s family has asked for privacy following the latest developments in this case. The bishop is expected back in court on May 16.