By Jonk wa Mashamba
news@alexreporter.co.za
Arise and Shine Gospel Church leader, Benjamin Bheki Dingiso (51), appeared at the High Court of South Africa Gauteng Local Division, Johannesburg, on 31 counts of rape, sexual grooming of children, sexual assault, and attempted rape.
Dingiso was a pastor in the church, and amongst his responsibilities, was to counsel church members spiritually and emotionally.
NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said about eight young boys, aged between 15 and 20, had encountered the pastor, as members of the church during periods ranging from 2009 to 2021.
“Dingiso allegedly informed them that they had prophetic gifts from God that required training.
“This, the state alleges, induced the boys to meet with him in his office where he sexually violated and/or raped them after telling them that he had to bond with them physically and spiritually whilst naked for them to understand their prophetic gift,” said Mjonondwane.
She said some of the boys were suffering emotionally and were sent to the accused for counselling when he took advantage of their vulnerabilities and allegedly raped or sexually assaulted them.
“Some of the complainants testified that the accused had sexually molested them several times. They said the accused at times would squeeze them in a hug and proceeded to kiss them, whilst requesting that they massage his private parts.
“In his defence, whilst giving evidence in chief, Dingiso stated that he had never sexually molested the boys. He told the court that he only offered prophetic training to them and denied the allegations made by the complainants” said Mjonondwane.
She said the trial continues on 23 October 2023, for the cross-examination of the accused.
