Pastor sentenced to 15 years for r*pe under guise of spiritual healing
A 42-year-old pastor, Thabiso Victor Mongatane, has been sentenced to 15 years’ direct imprisonment for the r*pe of a 25-year-old woman in Masodi village.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, 7 September 2022, after Mongatane convinced the victim that she required spiritual intervention.
According to court findings, the victim initially encountered Mongatane in March 2022 when her mother fell ill. A relative referred the family to Mongatane, who claimed to provide spiritual healing. The victim drove her mother to Masodi village, where the pastor reportedly treated her.
Months later, on Sunday, 4 September 2022, Mongatane allegedly prophesied to the victim and instructed her to return two days later for further spiritual assistance. On her return, Mongatane told her to undress and cover herself for a steaming ritual. After briefly leaving the room, he returned and instructed her to remain undressed for the continuation of the session, during which he r*ped her.
The victim reported the crime to local police, and the case was transferred to the Mokopane Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit. Investigating officer Sergeant Lesetja Langa led the inquiry, resulting in Mongatane’s arrest on 28 March 2024.
Mongatane was granted bail of R1,000 during the court proceedings. He was ultimately convicted and sentenced by the Mahwelereng Regional Court on Monday, 7 April 2025.
