By Crystal Ugoeze with Agency Reports
Zimbabwean preacher and founder of Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries, Prophet Walter Magaya, has been arrested on multiple charges, including rape and fraud.
He was on Monday arraigned at a Magistrate court in Harare where he was denied bail. the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed on Saturday.
According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the 41-year-old self-proclaimed prophet was taken into custody during an early morning operation on November 1 in Harare. Detectives in unmarked vehicles reportedly raided the PHD Ministries offices before whisking Magaya away for questioning.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Walter Magaya in connection with several reports of rape and fraud. Further details will be released in due course as investigations progress,” said Nyathi.
The arrest has shocked followers of the charismatic preacher, who commands a massive local and international following through his televised “healing” sessions and annual “Night of Turnaround” crusades. The timing of the arrest has also raised eyebrows, coming shortly after Magaya reportedly completed a 40-day fast on his prayer mountain.
Magaya first gained national attention in the early 2010s, rising to prominence as one of Zimbabwe’s most influential prophets. However, his ministry became mired in controversy in 2018 when he claimed to have discovered a cure for HIV and cancer. His announcement drew sharp criticism from the Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the United Nations, forcing him to publicly retract and apologise.
While the police have not disclosed how many victims are involved or the extent of the alleged crimes, sources suggest that the current charges stem from longstanding accusations of sexual misconduct and fraudulent financial dealings that span several years.
Over the years, Magaya has faced multiple allegations ranging from sexual abuse to dubious business operations and failed housing projects, all of which he has consistently denied.
Social media platforms were flooded with mixed reactions following news of the arrest. While some Zimbabweans hailed it as long overdue, others claimed the prophet was being targeted because of his influence and outspoken nature.
“This arrest could be a turning point for accountability among powerful religious figures who have long operated beyond scrutiny,” said a Harare-based social commentator.