A Phoenix pastor has been charged with gender-based violence after allegedly abusing the mother of his child repeatedly during their 10-month marriage. The case has sparked outrage and concern, as the religious leader’s position of authority and respect in the community is now being questioned amid the allegations.
The victim, Preann Chetty, spoke to the Phoenix Tabloid about the alleged abuse she suffered at the hands of her ex-husband, Pastor Lawandan Naidoo. Chetty described the psychological manipulation, physical violence, and constant fear she lived with daily.
Chetty claimed that the alleged that the abuse started slowly but progressively worsened, with Naidoo often using his position to control and intimidate her. “My ex-husband began abusing me at the beginning of our relationship. He would slap me, hit me on my head, pull my hair and throw coffee on my face. Whenever, he assaulted me, he took my phone away and locked me in his house until my scars healed. He never took me to church and my dad had to get police officers to escort me out of the house. I had no contact with anyone and I would get slapped if I wanted to speak to my parents. I was also not allowed to associate with church members. The controlling abuse when as far as him emptying my bank account. While hitting me, Lawandan would laugh and tell me that ‘the same hand I’m hitting you with is the same hand I lift up and call on God to heal people’,” she said.
The alleged abuse continued even after Chetty fell pregnant, with Naidoo’s parents allegedly witnessing one incident and doing nothing. Chetty was allegedly isolated from her family and friends, with Naidoo controlling her finances and movements.
Chetty has since opened a case at SAPS Phoenix and obtained a protection order against Naidoo. “I’m fearful for my life because he has threatened to have me ganged raped and killed. In speaking out about my abuse, I hope to prevent another woman from going through the same abuse at the hands Lawandan Naidoo. I have a case opened at SAPS Phoenix as well as a protection order against him – I trust that the justice system will not fail me,” said an emotional Chetty.
“To all the women out there who are suffering in silence or feel trapped, know that you are not alone. It’s not your fault, and you don’t deserve to be treated this way. Your worth is not defined by someone else’s cruelty. You are stronger than you think, and reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness, but of strength. There is support, there are people who care, and there is a way out. Don’t let fear or shame hold you back from seeking safety and healing. You deserve peace, love, and respect. Your life is yours to live – take the first step towards reclaiming it,” added Chetty.
Pastor Ethan Ramkuar, founder of Survival Centre, a ministry and NPO based in Phoenix, confirmed that he had been approached by a church member to report a case of GBV against Naidoo. Ramkuar expressed disappointment and concern over the allegations, emphasising that no circumstance justifies abuse or violence against another human being.
“I was informed that Pastor Lawandan Naidoo beat his wife on a regular basis and after doing some research, it was confirmed by his own church members, former church members and community members that the pastor has a history of allegedly assaulting his partners. We then approached Ms Chetty, who has since charged him for the alleged assault – she confirmed that a case has been opened with the Phoenix police station and trusts that the judicial system will bring her justice,” said Pastor Ramkuar.
“It is deeply disappointing to hear about the charges brought against a pastor. As ministers of the Gospel, we are called to reflect Christ’s love, compassion and respect for all people, especially within the sanctity of marriage. No circumstance justifies the abuse or violence against another human being. Our role as leaders is not only to preach peace and reconciliation but to embody those values in our own lives. The Survival Centre has a strong stance against gender-based violence on woman and children and hope that the perpetrator is brought to book for the charges against him,” added Pastor Ramkuar.
When contacted for comment, Naidoo referred the Phoenix Tabloid to his attorney, Ben Padayachee. Padayachee stated that his client had elected to exercise his right to remain silent and would not be subjected to a trial by the media.
Captain Carmen Rhynes, SAPS eThekwini District communication commander, confirmed that a case of GBV had been opened at Phoenix SAPS and was being investigated by Phoenix detectives. Pastor Naidoo last court appearance was held on Tuesday, 4 March. The case has been remanded to Tuesday, 8 April for further investigation.
