A pastor, his driver, and members of his congregation were arrested by the police in Acornhoek, Mpumalanga after they were found in possession of a stolen car. According to the police, SAPS members were conducting a routine patrol near Klaserie Dam when they spotted a vehicle with six occupants coming from the dam.

THE CAR WAS STOLEN IN 2011

Mpumalanga police spokesperson Captain Magonseni Nkosi said the vehicle had only one registration plate in front. "Members investigated the suspicious vehicle, and it was established that the vehicle was reported stolen at Maake SAPS in Limpopo back in 2011. The 42-year-old pastor claimed ownership of the vehicle and indicated that he bought it from a private seller in Acornhoek. He further indicated that he requested the 26-year-old driver to accompany him with the four members from his congregation, aged between 20 and 31 years, to the dam for rituals," Nkosi said., adding that all six people were arrested for possession of a reported stolen vehicle, and the vehicle was seized for further investigation.

PASTOR ACCUSED OF RAPE DENIED BAIL

Meanwhile, a 46-year-old pastor accused of raping a 16-year-old congregant has been denied bail by the Sabie Magistrate Court on Thursday. NPA Mpumalanga spokesperson Monica Nyuswa said they successfully opposed his release on bail for the rape, which allegedly happened at his house a year ago. "The court felt that the accused failed to prove the exceptional circumstances permitting his release on bail. It found that his release on bail might cause public disorder, might interfere with the witnesses, and might even evade trial," Nyuswa said. The pastor was arrested last month after the victim reported that she went to his place to be prayed for as she had a wound on her leg. "When she arrived at the accused's place of residence, the accused welcomed her, kissed her, and pushed her to his bedroom before raping her. The incident came to light after the victim told her friends at school who also shared the same experience with the victim, and the matter was reported to the police. During his arrest, a firearm and ammunition were found in his place. He is facing charges of rape and possession of a firearm and ammunition," Nyuswa added.