Police still searching for Kutama's 'rape prophet'

The SAPS in Tshilwavhusiku have cautioned women to beware of an unscrupulous individual who calls himself a prophet but who seems to be out to terrorise women. This warning follows an incident where a 22-year-old girl from Madodonga village, in the Kutama area, was raped by the said false prophet after he had conned her into believing that he had a special message for her.

According to police spokesperson Brig Hlulani Mashaba, the victim was with her boyfriend and friends at a tavern on Friday, 10 November, when the suspect approached her. He allegedly told her that he had many prophecies about her life challenges that he needed to deliver to her in private and that she had go with him. The victim left with the suspect and they started walking towards his place of residence. As they were walking through the bushes, away from the victim’s boyfriend and friends, the suspect allegedly forced himself onto her and started raping her while threatening to stab her. After the ordeal, the suspect allegedly fled the scene on foot.

Mashaba said the suspect had been identified but was still on the run. The police are appealing to Mulalo Lishi to come forward to assist them with their investigation. In the meantime, a manhunt has been launched, which is still continuing.

A resident at Madodonga, who wished to remain anonymous, said they were all shocked by the news. “No one can be trusted anymore. I’m scared, because we have young girls in the village who walk around at night and it’s just not safe anymore,” she said.

Limpopo police commissioner Lt-Gen Thembi Hadebe condemned such “barbaric acts practised in the name of religion” and said those perpetrating this type of crime would be dealt with accordingly and without compromise.

Anyone with information that can assist the police in arresting the suspect can contact Sgt Grace Hadzhi on 082 784 4226. Alternatively, they can call the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, report to the nearest police station or inform them anonymously on the MySAPSapp.

Date:24 November 2023

By: Kaizer Nengovhela

Kaizer Nengovhela started writing stories for Limpopo Mirror in 2000. Prior to that he had a five year stint at Phala-Phala FM as sports presenter. In 2005 Kaizer received an award from the province's premier as Best Sports Presenter. The same year he was also nominated as Best Sports Reporter by the Makhado Municipality. Kaizer was awarded the Mathatha Tsedu award in 2014.

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