A traditional healer, aged 36 has been arrested for allegedly raping a 16 year-old initiate under the pretext of conducting a ritual to cast away evil spirits.
The healer, who allegedly claims his healing powers come through his penis raped the girl who is training to be a traditional healer at his residence in Ga-Matipane, Bolobedu on Tuesday 12 September.
According to the police report, the healer approached the initiate and requested to have sex with her in order to remove the evil spirits as he claimed she was bewitched.
“The teenager did not consent to his request but the suspect seemingly forced himself 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 police spokesperson, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba.
A rape case was opened and the traditional healer was arrested at his residence on Thursday 14 September.
The Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has commended police in Mokwakwaila for a swift response in the apprehension of a traditional healer in connection with the rape of a 16 year-old initiate.
“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, people who are trusted in the Society. Let the law take its course and people like him deserve to be permanently removed from the society” said Lieutenant General Hadebe.
The suspect will appear before Bolobedu Magistrate Court on Monday 18 September 2023 facing a charge of rape. Police investigations are continuing.