Story by Parvel Makona
A 27-year-old self-proclaimed prophet from Harare has appeared in court facing rape charges after allegedly luring a woman under the guise of offering spiritual assistance.
The accused allegedly sexually assaulted a 23-year-old woman from Rusape after convincing her he could help resolve her personal and health challenges through spiritual means.
According to the State, the complainant first met the suspect on March 12 at a shop in Rusape, where he claimed to possess spiritual powers to assist people.
The court heard that on March 29, the woman reportedly met the accused again and was taken to a prayer site in Norton before being led to a lodge in Waterfalls, where the alleged rape occurred.
It is further alleged that the suspect threatened the complainant with spiritual harm if she refused to comply with his instructions.
The matter came to light after the complainant reported the incident to a friend before making a police report, leading to the suspect’s arrest.
The accused is expected to return to court on April 29 as the case continues.
