Magaya’s Bodyguard Granted US$300 Bail for Alleged Obstruction of Justice

A personal bodyguard to Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries founder Walter Magaya has been released on US$300 bail following his arrest for allegedly obstructing police officers who were executing a warrant.

The accused, Tapiwa Felix Chikondo (34), who also serves in the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA), appeared before Harare Provincial Magistrate Tapiwa Kuhudzai on Tuesday, 4 November.

Chikondo was granted bail on conditions that he does not interfere with witnesses, resides at his given address, and surrenders his passport to the Clerk of Court. His trial has been scheduled for 20 November.

Represented by lawyers Stephen Chikotora and Malvern Mapako, Chikondo faces charges of obstructing justice after he allegedly attempted to prevent Magaya’s arrest at the preacher’s Waterfalls prayer mountain on 1 November.

According to a report by CID Commercial Crimes Division Officer-in-Charge Washington Mashizha, Chikondo allegedly drove to the scene in a sky-blue Nissan Dayz, blocked the officers’ vehicle, and demanded to know their purpose there.

Mashizha stated:

“He shouted that we had no permission to be where we were since the place was his. He then pushed Detective Assistant Inspector Munyaradzi Chifamba to the ground before we managed to restrain and arrest him.”

Prosecutor Lancelot Mutsokoti opposed bail, arguing that Chikondo had a history of violent conduct and was facing a similar charge at Waterfalls Police Station. Mutsokoti warned that the accused could abscond, even without a passport.

However, defence lawyer Chikotora dismissed the allegations, insisting his client was being unfairly targeted as part of a broader probe into Magaya’s affairs.

“Chikondo was simply stationed at the boom gate and was unaware of the ongoing arrest. He never obstructed justice — this case is based on speculation,” Chikotora argued.

The defence further highlighted that Chikondo’s mobile phones were confiscated during his arrest, and he was allegedly denied access to legal representation. Chikotora also emphasized that his client is a homeowner in Harare, lives with his family, and remains in active military service — factors proving he is not a flight risk.

The case continues on 20 November.