A 55-year-old man in the Free State has been arrested and linked through DNA evidence to at least eight rapes and robberies spanning more than two decades after posing as a “prophet” and using ritual-style deceptions to target victims, often in graveyards. Police uncovered the pattern following a recent attack on a 21-year-old woman in Bloemfontein, and further forensic work has connected him to cases dating back to 1999. The suspect, who was reportedly out on parole when the recent incident occurred, will face multiple charges as authorities urge other potential victims to come forward. Tonight’s discussion with SAPS will explore the investigation, the exploitation of religious authority to commit crime, and police efforts to support victims and protect communities.
GUEST: Sgt Mahlomola Kareli - Police Spokesperson, SAPS

A 55-year-old man in the Free State has been arrested and linked through DNA evidence to at least eight rapes and robberies spanning more than two decades after posing as a &ldquo;prophet&rdquo; and using ritual-style deceptions to target victims, often in graveyards. Police uncovered the pattern following a recent attack on a 21-year-old woman in Bloemfontein, and further forensic work has connected him to cases dating back to 1999. The suspect, who was reportedly out on parole when the recent incident occurred, will face multiple charges as authorities urge other potential victims to come forward. Tonight&rsquo;s discussion with SAPS will explore the investigation, the exploitation of religious authority to commit crime, and police efforts to support victims and protect communities. GUEST: Sgt Mahlomola Kareli - Police Spokesperson, SAPS

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