EASTERN CAPE: The trial of Apostle Hlumelo Dywili (35) commenced in Bhizana High Court on Monday, 15 August 2022. Dywili was arrested in August 2021 on charges of trafficking in persons.

Dywili was arrested in August 2021 by members of the South African Police Service in Bhizana and the matter was referred to East London based Serious Organised Crime Investigation team of the Hawks for extensive probing.

The investigation revealed that four females aged between 20 and 24 years had fallen victims of the Apostle. Dywili allegedly used his Facebook account to lure the victims under false pretences that he was going to offer them non-existent jobs.

One travelled from Cape Town whilst the other was fetched by the Apostle from Mthatha with a promise of a job at the Apostle's church and were repeatedly raped on the same day.

He made a number of attempts for bail application and later made an about-turn when he abandoned his bail opting to remain in custody awaiting his trial.

The trial continues on Tuesday, 16 August 2022 where he is expected to have a new legal representation.

Source: South African Police Service