Fake Prophet Nabbed: Suspect Linked to 8 Graveyard Rapes Across Free State

A 55-year-old man who allegedly posed as a prophet to prey on women has been arrested and linked to eight rape and robbery cases spanning more than two decades in the Free State.

Police believe the suspect targeted victims in Welkom, Thabong and Bloemfontein, using graveyards as hunting grounds and claiming to “cleanse” women before attacking them.

Fake Prophet Suspect Caught After Graveyard Attack in Bloemfontein

Free State police spokesperson Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli said the suspect’s run from the law came to an end after he allegedly attacked a 21-year-old woman in Bloemfontein.

“The suspect’s run from the law ended recently after he allegedly attacked a 21-year-old female victim,” Kareli said on Thursday.

The victim was walking home through the Magengenene graveyard when she was attacked and raped. Community members intervened, apprehended the suspect and handed him over to Mangaung police.

Victims ‘Cleansed’ Before Being Raped and Robbed

Police allege the suspect used a disturbing modus operandi.

According to Kareli, once inside the graveyard, the man would persuade victims to undress under the pretence of performing a cleansing ritual.

He allegedly cut the victims’ hair and burned it on a nearby grave before raping them. He would then rob them of their cellphones, claiming that “witches” could use the devices to track them.

DNA Links Suspect to Crimes Dating Back to 1999

Through detective work and DNA profiling, police have now linked the suspect to seven additional cases of rape and robbery — five in Mangaung and two in Welkom.

“The forensic evidence links him to crimes dating back as far as 1999,” Kareli said.

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Police records indicate the suspect was out on parole when he allegedly resumed his criminal activities in 2022.

“The recent graveyard attack marks the eighth case now officially tied to his name,” Kareli added.

Police Appeal for More Victims to Come Forward

The suspect is expected to appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court soon, where he will face multiple charges of rape and robbery.

Police believe there may be more victims who have not yet reported their cases.

Anyone who may have been victimised in a similar manner is urged to contact Detective Sergeant Bessie Nthoba on 082 886 8979, call Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or report to their nearest police station.

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