Pastor Accused of Child Rape Denied Bail

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A 66-year-old pastor from Botlokwa in Limpopo has been denied bail after appearing in the Morebeng Magistrate’s Court on allegations of raping a three-year-old girl.

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The accused, identified as Justice Mongalo, also works as a driver at a crèche owned by his wife. It is alleged that on the day of the incident, he dropped the child off at her home later than usual. Shortly afterwards, the girl reportedly complained of pain in her private parts.

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Her family took her to hospital, where medical examinations confirmed that she had been raped. Mongalo has pleaded not guilty to the charge.

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The court ruled that he remain in custody until his next appearance, scheduled for 3 December.

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The case has drawn strong emotions within the community. Members of Mongalo’s church and his relatives attended the court proceedings to show their support, while other residents gathered outside to oppose bail.

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Police and social workers continue to investigate the matter, and the case has sparked renewed calls for the protection of children against abuse.

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