Violence has once again erupted around the trial in the South African coastal city of Port Elizabeth of Nigerian television pastor charged with raping a 14-year-old follower.
Leaving the court, the defence lawyer for Pastor Timothy Omotoso fled from a mob baying for his blood because of his aggressive questioning of the alleged victim who is now 22 years old.
Three days of testimony by Cheryl Zondi have grabbed television, radio and print headlines in South Africa.
She’s told the court that in 2015 Pastor Timothy Omotoso who’s church is called Jesus Dominion International, forced her to perform lewd sexual acts on him.
Omotoso defence lawyer Peter Daubermann questioned her aggressively, seeking to depict her as a willing subject.
Judge Mandela Makaula took Daubermann to task for asking Zondi how deeply the accused had penetrated her.
Daubermann submitted that Zondi was lying when she said she was frightened into obeying Omotoso and was too fearful to leave his home.
Omotoso, who was arrested 18 months ago, faces 97 charges ranging from rape and sexual assault to human trafficking and racketeeering.
His wife Taiwo, wearing a bright orange dress, was scolded by the judge for gesturing and talking during Zondi’s testimony.
The trial has been adjourned until Monday.