GAUTENG – Pastor Caiphus Mkhawane (36) and Amanda Manono Mnguni (32) have abandoned their bail applications in the Atteridgeville Magistrates’ Court, while their co-accused, Tsako Angel Makhubela (25), intends to proceed with her bail application.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson for the Gauteng Division in Pretoria, Lumka Mahanjana, all three accused face charges of conspiracy to commit murder and fraud.

“In addition, Mkhawane and Makhubela face charges of human trafficking, premeditated murder, rape, two counts of kidnapping, and robbery with aggravating circumstances,” she said.

“It is alleged that during August 2026, the accused took out several funeral policies in the name of the victim, who is the mother of the deceased infant.”

Mahanjana alleged that on 7 October, Mkhawane, Makhubela, and the victim travelled to the Hennops River under the pretext of performing religious rituals intended to free the victim from evil spirits and provide protection for her children.

“Upon their arrival at an area near the river, the two instructed the victim to undress, tied her up, and Makhubela allegedly washed her using water from a bucket,” she said. “Thereafter the pastor went with the victim to the river, leaving the child with Makhubela.”

Mahanjana added that when they arrived at the river, it is alleged that the pastor washed the victim again and raped her.

“After the rape, the pastor went to take the child from the wife, and they both went to the bushes, where they killed the child,” she said. “The victim allegedly managed to escape and reported the incident to nearby construction workers, who assisted in contacting the police.”

She also stated that following an investigation by the Erasmia detectives, Makhubela was arrested on 7 October after being identified by the victim, and Mnguni was arrested later the same day, while Mkhawane was arrested on 10 October.

“During their latest court appearance, Mkhawane and Mnguni abandoned their bail applications. Makhubela indicated that she intends to proceed with hers,” she said. “The matter was postponed to 23 October to allow Makhubela to consult with her legal representative regarding her bail application.”

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