PASTOR SENTENCED TO FIFTEEN YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR ROBBERY

11 JUNE 2025

PASTOR SENTENCED TO FIFTEEN YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR ROBBERY

Molopo, North West – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the 15-year direct imprisonment sentence handed down by the Molopo Regional Court to Petrus Phuthego Gasengake (48), who was convicted of robbery with aggravating circumstances.

The conviction stems from an incident that occurred on 4 April 2021 at the complainant’s home in Ramosadi Village near Mmabatho. Gasengake, who is a pastor at a local church, visited the home of a female congregant. At the time, she was in the company of another male church member. Upon arrival, Gasengake bypassed them and proceeded directly to the complainant’s bedroom.

An argument ensued in the bedroom, during which he choked the complainant and threatened her with a knife. Driven by rage, he stole R4,000 in cash, bank cards, and the keys to her motor vehicle, which he then used to flee the scene.

The court heard that after leaving the complainant’s home, he drove to his house in Lichtenburg, where he stabbed his wife without provocation and fled. Cases of robbery and attempted murder were subsequently opened. The stolen vehicle was circulated, and Gasengake was arrested in Vryburg on 6 April 2021. He was positively identified by the complainant.

He was previously sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment for the attempted murder of his wife on 11 November 2022.

Despite pleading not guilty to the robbery charge, Gasengake was convicted based on compelling evidence led by the prosecution. In aggravation of sentence, State Advocate Ntebaleng Mabale emphasised the prevalence of gender-based violence in the region and highlighted the importance of strong court action in protecting victims and communities. He argued that there were no substantial or compelling circumstances to warrant deviation from the prescribed minimum sentence of 15 years.

In delivering judgment, Magistrate Ndade Maphango cited the aggravating nature of the offence and noted that the accused showed no remorse and failed to apologise to the complainant.

Welcoming the verdict, Dr Rachel Makhari, Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, commended the prosecutor’s diligence and the bravery of the investigating officers. She reaffirmed the NPA’s commitment to pursuing justice for victims of crime and ensuring community safety.

Issued by:

Sivenathi Gunya
Communications Officer – North West Division
National Prosecuting Authority
078 172 9367