BINDURA — The Bindura Regional Magistrates’ Court has sentenced a 24-year-old self-proclaimed prophet to 15 years in imprisonment following his conviction for aggravated indecent assault.
The defendant, who hails from Chief Nyashanu in Buhera, was found guilty of assaulting an 11-year-old boy in the Chief Ruof Rushinga.
Details of the Offence
The court established that the events leading to the assault began on November 18, 2025. The victim was sent to meet the defendant at a bus stop to escort him to a nearby homestead for a prayer session.
During the journey, the defendant reportedly manipulated the child by claiming a "black spiritual bird" was following them and would attack. Upon arrival at the homestead, the defendant insisted on sleeping in the same room as the minor.
The assault occurred the following night when the defendant removed the victim's clothes, pinned him down, and sexually assaulted him.
Attempt to Conceal the Crime
Following the assault, the defendant gave the victim US$2 and instructed him not to disclose the incident to anyone. He claimed the money was intended as bus fare for the child to visit the offender's shrine in the future.
The crime was exposed on November 20, 2025, when the victim reported the abuse to his mother, leading to a police report and the subsequent arrest of the self-proclaimed prophet.
Official Statement
The NPAZ stated that this conviction serves as a warning that crimes of sexual violence against children will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
"Protecting minors from abuse is a priority, and offenders will face severe consequences," the authority noted in its statement. - Zimbo LIVE Harare
