A 78-year-old traditional healer from Warrenton was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment after he was found guilty of raping his client’s teen daughter.
A 78-YEAR-old traditional healer from Warrenton was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment after he was found guilty of raping the child of his client.
National Prosecuting Authority regional spokesperson Mojalefa Senokoatsane said the accused, Phineas Mabudza, was found guilty of three counts of rape by the Kimberley Regional Court.
“The traditional healer, who is known to the child and the family, was assisting her mother with the process of becoming a traditional healer. He allegedly raped the 16-year-old teenager while he performed rituals at their home. The girl informed her mother and the accused was arrested.”
Senokoatsane said that Mabudza lured the 16-year-old into a traditional room under the pretence of performing traditional rituals, before repeatedly raping her.
He added that the State prosecutor, advocate Belinda Thomas, argued that Mabudza used his power and influence to exploit and take advantage of the girl and showed no remorse for his actions.
“She stated that, as a traditional healer, he knew that the girl and her family trusted him, hence he took advantage of the family.”
He said Mabudza was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for each rape charge. The sentences will run concurrently.
“The accused was declared unfit to possess a firearm. The court also ordered that his name be entered into the national register for sex offenders.”
Senokoatsane added that the mother of the complainant believed that justice had prevailed and was grateful that Mabudza was convicted.
“She said that this sentence is a warning to traditional healers to stop abusing their trainees. She said she is looking forward to continuing and finishing her training as a traditional healer, as she wants to be a good example to other traditional healers.
“She concluded by saying that, as a police officer, she is also thankful for the support she received from the South African Police Service during the trial.”
