Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries founder Walter Magaya has been arrested in Harare over multiple allegations of rape and fraud, according to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP).

Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that Magaya was taken into custody early Saturday morning by a special operations unit following a series of complaints filed against him.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Prophetic Healing and Deliverance Church leader Walter Magaya in connection with several reports of sexual assault and fraud. The suspect was arrested earlier today by a police crack team. Further information will be shared as investigations continue,” said Commissioner Nyathi.

Although authorities have not yet disclosed detailed information, the arrest represents a major turn of events involving one of Zimbabwe’s most influential religious figures, whose ministry commands a large following locally and internationally.

Police indicated that more updates will be issued as the inquiry unfolds.

HARARE — A woman identified as Mavis Java Madzivanzira, the sister of well-known preacher Prophet Passion Java, appeared before the Harare Magistrates’ Court yesterday facing new fraud allegations involving a total of US$75,000.

Madzivanzira, who previously worked for the City of Harare, already has several pending fraud-related cases before the same court.

According to the prosecution, sometime in December last year, the complainant was in search of a residential stand to purchase in Harare or surrounding areas. It is alleged that Madzivanzira, acting in collaboration with her accomplice Danai Mawire, who is still on the run, became aware of the complainant’s interest and offered to sell Stand Number 877 Quinnington Township of Stand 163 Quinnington Township, Harare.

The duo reportedly produced fake documents purportedly from the City of Harare, convincing the complainant that the property was legitimate. The complainant allegedly paid US$75,000 for the stand.

The matter only came to light when the buyer approached the City of Harare for building plan approval and was informed that the property in question was privately owned and not part of the city’s land portfolio.

When the complainant tried to contact Madzivanzira for clarification, she allegedly became evasive, prompting the complainant to file a police report. Madzivanzira was subsequently arrested.

She was granted US$300 bail on the condition that she does not interfere with witnesses and reports twice weekly to the CID Commercial Crimes Division until the case is concluded.

Prosecutor Takudzwa Jambawo represented the State.

Police have launched investigations into a suspected case of food poisoning that claimed the lives of two children and left 14 other people critically ill during a traditional beer ceremony in Mashava on Monday.

National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the tragic development in a statement last night, saying preliminary reports indicate that the victims began experiencing severe stomach pains shortly after consuming food and traditional beer at the gathering.

According to police, several families had gathered for the community event, where they shared sadza, mahewu and traditional brew as part of the ceremony. The festive atmosphere quickly turned into tragedy when attendees began complaining of intense stomach cramps, vomiting and dizziness.

“Two minors aged three and seven succumbed to the suspected poisoning incident, while 14 others comprising seven adults and four children were rushed to Masvingo General Hospital, where they remain in critical condition,” said Commissioner Nyathi.

Police further revealed that three other individuals are currently receiving medical attention at Mashava Clinic.

Authorities have since collected food and drink samples from the scene for forensic analysis to determine the cause of the poisoning. Investigations are ongoing to establish whether the contamination was accidental or the result of foul play.

Meanwhile, the Mashava community has been left in deep shock following the tragic incident. Residents described the two deceased children as “joyful and full of life,” saying the loss has cast a dark cloud over the area.

Police have urged members of the public to exercise extreme caution when preparing or consuming homemade beverages and food during gatherings, especially those involving large groups.

More details are expected to emerge as investigations continue.