Police in Gauteng have launched a manhunt for a pastor after a four-month-old baby was found buried in a shallow grave on Wednesday, October 7.
The baby’s 43-year-old mother was also allegedly raped by the pastor.
Gauteng police spokesperson Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed the incident.
According to reports, the mother went to the Hennops River near R511 Road accompanied by her pastor and his wife for a ritual.
“Upon arrival, the pastor’s wife reportedly remained behind with the baby while the pastor and the woman proceeded towards the river. It is alleged that the woman was subsequently raped and tied up,” Nevhuhulwi said.
The woman managed to free herself and escape. She sought assistance at a nearby construction site. A private security company activated a response, and the police were also alerted.
A multidisciplinary team comprising Crime Scene Management, Search and Rescue, General Detectives, Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit detectives, as well as drone operators, was immediately deployed to search for the missing infant and locate the pastor and his wife.
“The 24-year-old wife of the pastor was subsequently located and questioned by police. She led investigators to a shallow grave where the baby’s body was found. Police have opened a case of kidnapping, rape and murder. The investigation is underway, while the manhunt for the pastor continues,” Nevhuhulwi said.
Police urge anyone with information to come forward or contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
IOL News
Robin-Lee Francke
iol.co.za
