Lesufi welcomes arrest of pastor linked to infant’s murder

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has welcomed the arrest of a pastor linked to the murder of a four-month-old baby and the alleged rape of her 43-year-old mother.

The pastor was arrested in Diepsloot, Johannesburg on Saturday.

He is expected to appear at the Atteridgeville Magistrates’ Court, west of Pretoria, on Monday.

MEDIA STATEMENT | Gauteng Premier welcomes arrest of pastor allegedly linked to murder of four-month-old baby. https://t.co/JNC1OLCtho — Gauteng Provincial Gov (@GautengProvince) October 11, 2026 The infant’s body was found buried in a shallow grave near the Hennops River earlier this week.

Lesufi has condemned the incident and says no child deserves to have their life cut short.

“We welcome the arrest of the suspect in this matter because it’s a first step in ensuring that this tragic matter is brought before the courts and that those responsible are held accountable in terms of the law.

We trust that the criminal justice system will also ensure that it takes its course and that the family will find some measure of justice.” MEDIA STATEMENT | Gauteng Premier welcomes arrest of pastor allegedly linked to murder of four-month-old baby. https://t.co/JNC1OLCtho — Gauteng Provincial Gov (@GautengProvince) October 11, 2026 VIDEO | Pastor wanted for rape and murder near Diepsloot