PASTOR SENTENCED TO 55 YEARS FOR RAPING YOUNG CHURCH MEMBERS

03 November 2025

PASTOR SENTENCED TO 55 YEARS FOR RAPING YOUNG CHURCH MEMBERS

Virginia, Free State – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the 55-year sentence imposed by the Virginia Regional Court on self-proclaimed pastor Sabata Mariti for three counts of rape against congregation members. The sentencing was delivered today, 03 November 2025.

Prosecutor Marelize Nel argued Mariti exploited spiritual authority to abuse vulnerable young women in his “Team of Prophecy” (ages 13–23). He lured three girls (15, 17, and one refusing) to his bedroom during a July 2022 overnight prayer session under the pretext of a TikTok video, raped them successively despite pleas, and threatened family deaths if they spoke. One mother discovered messages and reported to the police; another victim came forward later. Evidence included medical reports and WhatsApp messages.

Mariti claimed an ANC Women’s League conspiracy; the court rejected it. Nel submitted no compelling circumstances for leniency, calling the acts “humiliating, degrading, brutal invasions.” A Victim Impact Statement detailed one survivor’s suicide attempt. The court condemned Mariti’s abuse of trust and faith. Sentence: Count 1: 20 years, count 2: 15 years, and Count 3: 20 years, effectively all amount to 55 years in prison.

Regional Control Prosecutor Charmaine Labuschagne praised victims’ resilience and Nel’s perseverance amid intimidation: “The accused’s control was chilling; some initially lied to protect him.” Sexual violence strips victims of dignity and privacy. No one hides behind faith. The NPA stands with survivors. Ends

Issued by:

Mojalefa Senokoatsane

NPA Regional Spokesperson

Free State Division

Email: MSenokoatsane@npa.gov.za

Tel: 073 423 3539