SA Pastor Accused of Raping Woman and Killing Her Baby Reportedly on the Run

Police in Gauteng are looking for a pastor who is linked to an investigation into the alleged rape of a 43-year-old woman and the killing of her four-month-old baby. The incident was reported near the Hennops River and the R511 road, and it has led to a large police operation and strong condemnation.

According to early police information, the woman travelled to the riverside spot on Wednesday, 7 October 2026, with the pastor and his 24-year-old wife. The trip was reportedly arranged for a spiritual ritual. When they got there, the pastor’s wife stayed with the baby while the pastor and the mother walked towards the river.

Investigators say the woman was allegedly sexually assaulted and restrained. She managed to free herself and reached a nearby construction site, where she asked for help. A private security company was called, and the police were then told about the attack and the missing baby.

Officers launched a joint search that included detectives, crime-scene experts, search-and-rescue teams and investigators who deal with crimes against women and children. Drone operators were also used as authorities tried to find the baby and establish what had happened to the people who had been with the mother.

The case took a tragic turn when police found the pastor’s wife and questioned her. Authorities say she led them to a shallow grave where the baby’s body was found. The discovery confirmed the mother’s worst fears and moved the investigation towards how the child died.

Cases of rape, kidnapping and murder have been opened. The pastor is still being hunted by police, while the provincial government says his wife has been arrested. Not every detail about the baby’s death has been made public, and the allegations against the pastor remain matters for the police and, possibly, the courts.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi condemned the incident and sent his condolences to the mother and her family. He supported the police response and asked anyone with useful information to help investigators find the suspect. The case has brought fresh attention to violence against women and children, and to the harm that can follow when a position of spiritual trust is allegedly abused.

For now, the search goes on as police look for answers about the attack, the baby’s death and the part played by each person involved. Police have asked members of the public with reliable information to come forward and not to spread unverified claims online.

https://x.com/KayaNews/status/2108049308922577030

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