By REGINALD KANYANE
13 June 2025- A pastor, Petrus Phuthego Gasengake (48), who was convicted of robbery with aggravating circumstances was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment by the Molopo Regional Court.
On 4 April 2021, Gasengake went to the house of a female congregant in Ramosadi village, near Mahikeng.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Sivenathi Gunya said at the time, the congregant was in the company of another male church member. Gunya said 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 R4000 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,” he said.
Gunya further said a case of robbery and attempted murder was subsequently opened. He added that the stolen vehicle was circulated and Gasengake was arrested in Vryburg on 6 April 2021.
“He was positively identified by the complainant. Gasengake 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, he 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 (GBV) in the region and highlighted the importance of strong court action in protecting victims and communities,” said Gunya.
He said Mbale argued that there were no substantial or compelling circumstances to warrant deviation from the prescribed minimum sentence of 15 years. Gunya said 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.
Meanwhile, 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. Makhari reaffirmed the NPA’s commitment to pursuing justice for victims of crime and ensuring community safety.
“The NPA welcomes the 15-year direct imprisonment sentence,” she said.
The Guardian 