Pastor Thabiso Mongatane has been sentenced to 15 years for raping a woman during a spiritual healing session in Limpopo.
Key Points:
- Pastor sentenced to 15 years for raping woman under the guise of spiritual healing.
- Investigation transferred to Mokopane FCS unit, leading to Mongatane’s arrest.
- Limpopo police commissioner commended the investigation team for their work.
Conviction and Sentencing
A 42-year-old Limpopo-based pastor received a 15-year prison sentence for raping a 25-year-old woman during a supposed spiritual healing session.
According to provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the pastor sexually assaulted the woman in Masodi village in September 2022. He convinced her that she needed spiritual intervention for a health condition before he took advantage of her.
“Pastor Thabiso Victor Mongatane was convicted and sentenced to 15 years for rape,” Ledwaba said.
The Incident and Investigation
The case began in early 2022 when the victim’s mother became ill. A relative suggested Mongatane could help heal her, so the woman drove her mother to Masodi village in the Mahwelereng policing area. Upon arrival, Mongatane attended to her mother’s illness.
The court learned that, in March 2022, Mongatane prophesied to the victim. He instructed her to return two days later for help with her personal struggles.
When the woman returned on September 4, 2022, Mongatane allegedly ordered her to undress for a steaming treatment. After leaving her alone for a few minutes, he returned. He then told her to remain undressed to continue the treatment. At that point, Mongatane took advantage of the situation and raped the woman.
The Trial and Aftermath
Following the assault, the victim opened a rape case at the local police station. Authorities transferred the case to the Mokopane Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offenses (FCS) Unit. Sergeant Lesetja Langa took charge of the investigation. Police arrested Mongatane in March 2023.
During the trial, Mongatane initially received R1,000 bail. However, the Mahwelereng Regional Court convicted him and sentenced him to 15 years of direct imprisonment on Monday.
Limpopo provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe praised the investigation. She acknowledged the team’s “meticulous work” in bringing the case to court.
This conviction underscores the importance of holding perpetrators accountable. It also highlights the abuse of power that can occur within places of trust.
