Sebokeng – Bishop Meshack Molefi Phofedi of the New Babillon Apostolic Church in Evaton West Extension 7B has been arrested on suspicion of raping a minor and remains in custody.
Gauteng provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Mavela Masondo said the accused was arrested in Sebokeng on Sunday, (2 March 2025), for allegedly raping a 14-year-old girl.
“A case of rape was opened at Evaton Police Station and transferred to Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit, where the docket was assigned to a seasoned investigating officer for further investigation,” said Lieutenant-Colonel Masondo.
The 34-year-old self-proclaimed “Lion of Postola” appeared briefly in the Sebokeng Regional Court on a charge of statutory rape on Monday, (3 March 2025).
Allegations are that on 16 August 2024 the 14-year-old girl, her parents, and the accused were returning from a spiritual retreat in Clarence, Free State, when they stopped at a fuel station.
The girl went to a restroom and it is alleged that the accused followed her and allegedly raped her, while her parents waited in the car unaware of the incident.
It is further alleged that the accused asked the victim’s mother to bring the girl to church for “prayer sessions”.
On several occasions between August 2024 and January 2025, it is alleged that the accused would rape the girl during the “prayer sessions” while her mother waited outside.
The abuse came to light after the victim developed an infection and confided in her sister, who informed their parents.
The mother confronted the accused and reported the matter to the police.
Bishop Phofedi, who is accused of dalliance with an underage congregant, was remanded in custody.
His matter was postponed to 13 March 2025.
