A 36-year-old sangoma from Limpopo has been arrested for the alleged rape of a 16- year-old initiate claiming he was removing bad spirits from her. The incident happened on Tuesday in Ga-Matipane village in Mopani District at the sangoma's home and he was arrested on Thursday.

Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the sangoma approached the initiate, and demanded sex. "He allegedly said the sex is meant to remove evil spirits from her as she was bewitched. The teenager did not consent to his request, but the suspect seemingly forced himself on her and later raped her. Afterwards, the victim went home and informed her mother about the ordeal, and the matter was immediately reported to the police," said Ledwaba. Ledwaba said after the rape case was opened, they conducted a massive search to locate the sangoma and on Thursday they apprehended him at his home.

Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe said the law must take its course against traditional healers who rape initiates and patients. "I am delighted about the arrest of the traditional healer who took advantage of a vulnerable victim who was supposed to be assisted, guided and protected by individuals like him who are trusted in the society.The law must take its course, and people like him deserve to be permanently removed from the society," said Hadebe. The suspect will appear in the Bolobedu Magistrate's Court tommorow on a charge of rape. Police investigations are continuing.