A PASTOR accused of assaulting a teenage girl was denied bail.
The suspect appeared in the Sabie Magistrates Court on Thursday, 7 November.
The 46-year-old pastor was arrested in October 2024 after the victim reported the matter to the police a few days after the incident .The pastor allegedly called the suspect to pray for her after she had an bacteria attack on her leg. When the victim got to the alleged perpetrator’s house, he forced himself onto her.
Magistrate Gerald Gunguluza denied the pastor’s bail request, stating he failed to present exceptional circumstances. He cited insufficient details about the alternative address provided. Gunguluza also noted the risk of the accused interfering with victims, who were initially afraid to report the matter. He emphasized that the victims only spoke up after sharing their experiences with each other, leading one witness to report the incident to the police.
The court was informed that the victim had entrusted the pastor with her spiritual well-being, but tragically, he exploited that trust. Speaking with the victim’s grandmother expressed relief, noting the family’s prior concern for their safety, given the pastor’s influential position. “We’re grateful that bail was denied. I feared he would intimidate my grandchild and pressure her to drop the charges. I’m pleased with the court’s decision,” she shared
Monica Nyuswa, spokesperson for the Provincial National Prosecuting Authority, echoed satisfaction with the ruling. “The court recognized the risk of witness interference if the accused were granted bail, as it became clear he abused his position to exploit the victim,” she said.
