Pastor faces kidnapping, rape charges

Marvin Damaseb (39), a pastor with Holy Ghost Fire Ministries in Walvis Bay, appeared before the local magistrate's court on a charge of kidnapping yesterday morning.

An additional charge of rape was added.

According to Deputy Commissioner Erastus Iikuyu of the Erongo police, Damaseb allegedly took a girl who is believed to be 13-years-old from a primary school in Walvis Bay without the consent of her mother.

“The mother reported the matter to the police on the same day (4 November). The police found the pastor and the girl in Windhoek on 8 November, where he was arrested and she was taken to a shelter.”





Damaseb made his first appearance in the Windhoek Magistrate's Court on 11 November and his case was transferred to Walvis Bay.

Appearing before Magistrate Rhivermo Williams yesterday, Damaseb indicated that he will be conducting his own defence.

State prosecutor Wakundomo Fidel said the State was adding a charge of rape, as it is alleged Damaseb had sexual intercourse with the girl.

The State opposed bail because of the seriousness of the offence.

Williams postponed the case to 22 January 2020 for further investigation. Damaseb remains behind bars.

LEANDREA LOUW