Hefty sentence for pastor convicted of robbery

A pastor convicted of robbery with aggravating circumstances was this week sentenced to 15 years’ direct imprisonment by the Molopo Regional Court.

The court heard that Petrus Phuthego Gasengake (48), a pastor at a local church, visited the home of a female congregant in Ramosadi Village near Mmabath, in the North West Province, on 4 April 2021.

At the time, the victim was in the company of a male congregant.

Upon arrival, Gasengake bypassed them and proceeded directly to the victim’s bedroom.

ALSO READ: Richards Bay pastor faces sexual assault charges, granted bail

An argument ensued in the bedroom, during which he choked the victim and threatened her with a knife.

Driven by rage, he stole R4 000 in cash, as well as bank cards and the keys to her car, which he then used to flee the scene.

The court further heard that after leaving the victim’s home, Gasengake drove to his house in Lichtenburg, where he stabbed his wife without provocation, and fled.

Cases of robbery and attempted murder were subsequently opened. Details of the stolen vehicle were circulated, and Gasengake was arrested in Vryburg two days later.

He was positively identified by the victim.

Gasengake was in November 2022 sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment for the attempted murder of his wife.

Despite pleading not guilty to the robbery charge, Gasengake was convicted based on compelling evidence led by the prosecution.

In aggravation of sentence, State Advocate Ntebaleng Mabale emphasised the prevalence of gender-based violence in the region and highlighted the importance of strong court action in protecting victims and communities.

He argued that there were no substantial or compelling circumstances to warrant deviation from the prescribed minimum sentence of 15 years.

In delivering judgment, Magistrate Ndade Maphango cited the aggravating nature of the offence, and noted that the accused showed no remorse and failed to apologise to the victim.

Don’t have the ZO app? Download it to your Android or Apple device here:

HAVE YOUR SAY