Diepsloot Pastor Arrested Over Baby’s Death and Mother’s Rape
A 36-year-old pastor has been arrested in Diepsloot following the death of a four-month-old baby and the alleged rape of the child’s 43-year-old mother during what was described as a spiritual ritual at the Hennops River.
The pastor appeared in the Randburg Magistrates’ Court today (Monday, 12 October 2026). His two wives appeared in court on 9 October 2026 in connection with the same case.
THE ALLEGED ORDEAL
According to police, the 43-year-old mother had accompanied the pastor and his wife to the Hennops River for a ritual. While there, she was allegedly raped and tied up by the pastor.
The woman managed to escape and sought help from authorities, who launched an investigation. The baby’s body was later discovered in a shallow grave.
Police have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the baby’s death, and post-mortem results are awaited. The circumstances surrounding how the infant came to be buried remain under investigation.
PREMIER WELCOMES ARREST
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi welcomed the arrest, describing it as “an important step” towards justice for the victims.
Lesufi has previously spoken out strongly against gender-based violence and the abuse of women and children in the province. His office has been monitoring the case closely given its sensitive nature and the involvement of a religious leader.
Community members in Diepsloot have expressed shock and anger at the allegations, with some calling for the harshest possible punishment if the pastor is found guilty.
A PATTERN OF ABUSE IN RELIGIOUS SETTINGS
The case is the latest in a series of incidents in which religious leaders have been accused of abusing their positions of trust. In recent years, South Africa has seen several high-profile cases of pastors and church leaders facing charges related to sexual assault, exploitation, and in some instances, the deaths of congregants.
The Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission) has repeatedly called for greater regulation of religious institutions, arguing that the absence of oversight creates conditions where abuse can flourish.
WHERE TO GET HELP
The Soweto Bulletin reminds readers that help is available for survivors of gender-based violence and abuse:
- GBV Command Centre: 0800 428 428 (toll-free)
- SAPS Emergency: 10111
- Stop Gender Violence Helpline: 0800 150 150
- Lifeline SA: 0861 322 322
- Childline South Africa: 0800 055 555
