Pastore Ebrahiem Sardien’s Bail Denied in Cape Town Rape Case
A Delft Spiritual Crime Prevention leader, Pastor Ebrahiem Sardien, has been denied bail after appearing in the Bellville Magistrates Court on charges of kidnapping and raping a 15-year-old girl. Sardien, also known as Pastor Hiema or Ebie, was arrested in November 2022 following a report to the police by the victim.
Court Appearance and Postponement
The case, which has been highly publicized in Cape Town, saw a long-awaited court appearance on [Date of court appearance]. Sardien’s bail application was ultimately denied, and the matter has been postponed to 15 April 2023 to allow for further investigation.
The Accusation
According to a community member, Sardien had regular contact with the victim, frequently fetching her from home every Saturday for praise and worship classes. On the day of the alleged incident, the community member asserts that Sardien deviated from their usual route, citing a need to make a stop in Goodwood.
“He entered and threw her against the door, and ended up raping her on the floor. He did all sorts of things to her because she’s still bleeding excessively,” the community member recounted.
Support for the Victim
Members of Action Society and Women Impacting The Nation attended the court case, lending their support to the young victim. Soeraya Keys from Women Impacting The Nation expressed relief at the bail denial. “Bail has been denied for Pastor Ebie. We at court are very emotional for the outcome and are glad to hear that bail has been denied,” Keys stated.
Call to Action
This case highlights the urgent need to address the issue of sexual violence in our communities. If you or someone you know needs help, please contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-4673. You are not alone.