Senior member of church charged with rape intends to become a state witness

A major twist has occurred in the rape case of the 50‑year‑old pastor of the Agape Healing Church Ministry Waisake Tulavu.

He is charged with 4 counts of rape.

The pastor is jointly charged with a senior member of the church Sakiusa Nakutoro with a count of rape.

Both appeared before High Court Judge Justice Daniel Goundar this morning and Nakutoro told the court that he intends to become a state witness.

Nakutoro told the Judge that he didn't commit any crime however witnessed it.

When asked by the Judge, DPP lawyer, Meli Vosawale said that they will consider Nakutoro's application.

Nakutoro's bail hearing will take place next Monday and he has been told to bring his sureties.

Meanwhile, Vosawale informed the court that they are seeking more time to file information and disclosures as the three complainants have moved from the alleged crime scene in Naitasiri.

The pastor, Waisake Tulavu is charged in three separate cases of rape.

The victims in these cases are aged 22, 29 and 32 years and were members of the church.

The first alleged incident occurred on the 11th of May last year, the second incident occurred between the 1st of May to the 31st of May last year, while the third incident occurred on the 15th of September last year.