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Norton magistrate Christine Nyandoro is set to conduct an “inspection in loco” at Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa’s Canaan Shrine in Nyabira on Thursday, August 29.
As reported by <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/inspection-in-loco-at-madzibaba-ishmaels-shrine/">H-Metro</a>, the inspection follows a successful application by Harare District Prosecutor Tafara Chirambira for the court to observe the activities at the shrine firsthand.
“Inspection in loco” is a process where individuals or groups examine a specific location to gather evidence pertinent to a case.
Prosecutors plan to lead evidence from their final witness at the shrine to strengthen their case.
Chokurongerwa and seven others are on trial for mistreating 41 children, conducting burials without proper orders, and failing to notify authorities of births and deaths.
In their defence, Chokurongerwa and his co-defendants argued that they did not have a guardianship obligation toward the minors, saying it was not their responsibility to care for them. In a statement, the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) said:
<blockquote>
The Court will be conducting an inspection in loco at Madzibaba Ishmael’s Canaan shrine in Nyabira tomorrow as the State case continues in the trial versus Chokurongerwa and others.
</blockquote>
Chokurongerwa (54) is appearing together with Takavengwa Gwenzi (55), Siribiniyo Chikunhire (53), Wonder Kabaya (41), Devlodge Katsande (48), Zebedia Sigudu (49), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47) and Shingirai Ngavafume (42), all from Lilly Farm in Nyabira.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

A judge is going to see Madzibaba Ishmael's Canaan Shrine to find out more about a case. The prosecutors want to show evidence in court from this visit. They say Chokurongerwa and others mistreated children and did not follow rules for burials and births. The accused say they didn't have to take care of the children. The judge will visit the shrine to see what happened. Chokurongerwa and seven others are on trial for this.

Magistrate To Conduct Site Inspection At Madzibaba Ishmael’s Canaan Shrine

A witness in the trial of Apostolic sect leader, Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa, said he should be held responsible for failing to comply with the law in securing birth certificates for the children who were part of his sect at Lilly Farm in Nyabira.
As reported by <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/witness-nails-madzibaba-ishmael/">H-Metro</a>, the trial of Madzibaba Ishmael and his seven suspected accomplices resumed on Wednesday, 19 June.
Madzibaba Ishmael and his accomplices, namely Takavengwa Gwenzi (55), Siribiniyo Chikunhire (53), Wonder Kabaya (41), Devlodge Katsande (48), Zebedia Sigudu (49), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47) and Shingirai Ngavafume (42), are facing three counts of ill-treating children, conducting a burial without a burial order and failing to give notice of the birth and death of a person.
District public prosecutor Tafara Chirambira, and prosecutor Sheila Mupindu, led evidence from their second witness, Farai Gatusa.
Gatusa is an officer from the Births and Deaths registration department who went to Lily Farm on the day in question.
He testified that when they visited the farm, they were blocked from conducting their duties by Madzibaba Ishmael.
Gatusa told the court that they observed graves shown to them by Madzibaba Ishmael and about 48 children who lived on the farm did not have birth certificates.
He said the birth certificates shown to him by Madzibaba Ishmael’s lawyers were obtained in June 2024, after their visit in March.
Gatusa questioned the authenticity of the birth certificates as they were uncertified copies, which he was only made aware of in court.
He claimed the documents were obtained by Madzibaba Ishmael and his accomplices in an attempt to vindicate themselves from the offence, long after the trial had started.
Village head Nzwanai Musonza also testified that he would occasionally be called by Madzibaba Ishmael, and his accomplices, to officiate at the funerals and he thought they would have notified the authorities.
Musonza told the presiding magistrate, Christine Nyandoro, that he was shocked to learn that no action was taken to inform authorities of the church leaders.
In their defence, Madzibaba Ishmael and his accomplices argued that they did not have a guardian obligation to the minors, hence it was not their duty to take care of them.
The accused persons told the court that none of the alleged victims, nor their parents, have lodged a complaint with the police, therefore “the State should not be crying more than the bereaved.”
They further stated that they did not conduct the burial of any person without notifying authorities.
Madzibaba and his accomplices also submitted that they were not the only adults at Lily Farm and should not be held accountable.
The trial resumes on June 27.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Civil Registry Department Official Testifies In Madzibaba Ishmael Trial

The trial of Ishmael Chokurongerwa (54), the controversial leader of an end-time faction of the Johanne Masowe Yechishanu apostolic sect, and his co-accused was on Thursday postponed to June 2024 because their lawyer, Purity Chikangaise of Maphosa and Ndomene Legal Practitioners, was not feeling well.
Chokurongerwa, Takavengwa Gwenzi (55), Siribiniyo Chikunhire (56), Wonder Kabaya(47) and Shingirayi Ngavafume (42), who are leaders of the Johane Masowe eChishanu Yekutanga Apostolic church appeared before the Norton Magistrates’ court on Thursday, 23 May facing several charges. These are:
<blockquote>
1. Ill-treatment or neglect of children (involving 41 children)
2. Conducting a funeral service/burial without a burial order
3. Failure to give notice of the birth and death of a person.
</blockquote>
The courts granted the accused persons bail and are out of custody.
Madzibaba Ishmael is also facing five counts of “having sexual intercourse with a minor” after he allegedly engaged in sexual relations with 5 minors between 2018 and 2024.
Chokurongerwa and Chikunhure and Kabaya are also facing a murder charge after they allegedly terminated Hazel Chikurunhe’s pregnancy, resulting in her death.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Madzibaba Ishmael Trial Postponed

The leader of an alleged religious cult, Ishmael Chokurongerwa, who is facing murder charges, has been released on bail.
Chokurongerwa, better known as Madzibaba Ishmael, and his co-accused Siribhino Chikurunhe and Wonder Kabaya were on Tuesday, 14 May, granted US$500 bail each by High Court judge Justice Esther Muremba.
It is the State’s case that on November 12, 2023, the accused connived to terminate Hazel Chikurunhe’s pregnancy, resulting in her death.
The trio allegedly secretly buried Chikurunhe at Chokurongerwa’s shrine in Nyabira without following due procedure.
Her body was exhumed recently, leading to the trio’s arrest.
Chokurongerwa, Chikurunhe and Kabaya are represented by Purity Chikangaise of Maphosa and Ndomene Legal Practitioners.
Madzibaba Ishmael is also facing charges of having sexual intercourse with five underage girls between 2018 and 2024 resulting in the birth of several children.
Besides the charges mentioned above, Madzibaba Ishmael, together with six other Johanne Masowe Yechishanu apostolic sect leaders are facing three counts as follows:
<blockquote>
1. Ill-treatment or neglect of children (involving 41 children)
2. Conducting a funeral service/burial without a burial order
3. Failure to give notice of the birth and death of a person.
</blockquote>
The other accused persons are Shingirai Ngawafune (42), Zebedia Sigudu, Devlodge Katsande (45), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47), Wonder Kabaya (41) and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53).
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Madzibaba Ishmael Granted US$500 Bail On Murder Charge

The trial of Ishmael Chokurongerwa (54), the controversial leader of an end-time apostolic sect and his co-accused was postponed on Tuesday, 07 May, at the Norton Magistrates’ Court.
In a statement, the NPA said the trial could not kick off as Madzibaba Ishmael and Takavengwa Gwenzi (55) failed to turn up for trial due to reported ill health. The two were said to be in hospital.
The other accused persons are Shingirai Ngawafune (42), Zebedia Sigudu, Devlodge Katsande (45), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47), Wonder Kabaya (41) and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53).
The seven Johanne Masowe Yechishanu apostolic sect leaders are facing three counts as follows:
1. Ill-treatment or neglect of children (involving 41 children)
2. Conducting a funeral service/burial without a burial order
3. Failure to give notice of the birth and death of a person.
The trial was rescheduled for the 23rd and 24th of May 2024.
Additionally, Madzibaba Ishmael is facing murder charges after he allegedly connived with Chikunhure and Kabaya to terminate Hazel Chikurunhe’s pregnancy, resulting in her death.
He is also facing five counts of “having sexual intercourse with a minor”. Prosecutors allege that Chokurongerwa engaged in sexual relations with 5 minors between 2018 and 2024.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa Hospitalised

Controversial apostolic sect leader Ishmael Chokurongerwa, better known as Madzibaba Ishmael, was back at the Norton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday facing murder charges.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Chokurongerwa (56) allegedly connived with Siribhino Chikunhure and Wonder Kabaya to terminate Hazel Chikurunhe’s pregnancy, resulting in her death. Said the NPA:
<blockquote>
They went on to secretly bury the deceased’s body at Lily Farm church shrine without following due procedure.
</blockquote>
Chikunhure and Kabaya escaped the police dragnet when law enforcement agents raided Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine and are still at large.
Chokurongerwa was remanded in custody to 07 May 2024 and was referred to the High Court for bail application.
The leader of the Johanne Masowe Penyera Nyika sect based in Nyabira also faced five counts of “having sexual intercourse with a minor” when he appeared at the Norton Magistrates’ Court yesterday.
Chokurongerwa allegedly engaged in sexual relations with 5 minors between 2018 and 2024 and impregnated them resulting in the birth of six infants. One of his victims, a 14-year-old, has two children.
He was recently granted US$1,000 bail following his arrest for allegedly violating the Burial and Children’s Act, respectively.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Madzibaba Ishmael Arrested For Murder

Ishmael Chokurongerwa, popularly known as Madzibaba Ishmael, the leader of the Johanne Masowe Penyera Nyika sect, was slapped with fresh charges when he appeared again at the Norton Magistrates’ Court.
Chokurongerwa (54) was arrested several weeks ago together with other seven members of his sect. They were charged with violating the Burial and Children’s Act, respectively.
He is now facing five counts of “having sexual intercourse with a minor”. Prosecutors allege that Chokurongerwa engaged in sexual relations with 5 minors between 2018 and 2024. These are
a) 15-year-old, resulting in the birth of an infant
b) 13-year-old, resulting in the birth of 1 infant
c) 14-year-old with whom he now has two children
d) 15-year-old with whom he has a child
e) 16-year-old, resulting in the birth of another infant.
Chokurongerwa was last week granted bail by the High Court after spending almost two months in remand prison on previous charges.
The Court ruled that there was no longer any risk that Madzibaba Ishmael would interfere with witnesses, hence the decision to grant him bail.
Apart from an order to deposit US$ 1,000 with the clerk of court Norton Magistrstes’ Court, the High Court also barred Chokurongerwa from conducting any church gatherings anywhere until the matter is finalised.
He was also ordered not to interfere with witnesses directly or indirectly until the matter is finalised and to report to the police three times a week.
Chokurongerwa’s co-accused; Shingirai Ngawafune (42), Takavengwa Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu (49), Devlodge Katsande (47), Wonder Kabaya (41), and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53) were granted bail early this month by the Harare High Court. 
The trial for all eight individuals will commence on May 7, 2024, at the Norton Magistrates’ Court.
The State alleges that Chokurongerwa and his associates conducted funeral services for Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Kabaya without obtaining proper burial orders for the deceased. 
Furthermore, the sect leaders, who acted as guardians for the children residing at the church’s compound in Nyabira, are accused of neglecting, abandoning, and exposing the children to conditions likely to cause unnecessary suffering. 
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Madzibaba Ishmael In Court Again, For Raping And Impregnating Five Minors

Controversial religious cult leader, Ishmael Chokurongerwa, popularly known as Madzibaba Ishmael, has finally been granted bail by the High Court after spending almost two months in remand prison.
Chokurongerwa (54), who leads the Johanne Masowe Penyera Nyika sect, and seven other members of the sect, were arrested for allegedly violating the Burial and Children’s Act, respectively.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the High Court ruled that there was no longer any risk that Madzibaba Ishmael would interfere with witnesses, hence the decision to grant him bail.
Apart from an order to deposit US$ 1,000 with the clerk of court Norton Magistrstes’ Court, the High Court also barred Chokurongerwa from conducting any church gatherings anywhere until the matter is finalised.
He was also ordered not to interfere with witnesses directly or indirectly until the matter is finalised and to report to the police three times a week.
Chokurongerwa’s co-accused; Shingirai Ngawafune (42), Takavengwa Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu (49), Devlodge Katsande (47), Wonder Kabaya (41), and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53) were granted bail early this month by the Harare High Court. 
The trial for all eight individuals will commence on May 7, 2024, at the Norton Magistrates’ Court.
The State alleges that Chokurongerwa and his associates conducted funeral services for Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Kabaya without obtaining proper burial orders for the deceased. 
Furthermore, the sect leaders, who acted as guardians for the children residing at the church’s compound in Nyabira, are accused of neglecting, abandoning, and exposing the children to conditions likely to cause unnecessary suffering. 
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Madzibaba Ishmael Granted Bail, Barred From Conducting Church Services

Two female members of an apostolic sect led by Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa on Thursday appeared in court facing trafficking charges, <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/duo-locked-up-for-harbouring-witnesses-to-jailed-cult-leaders-crimes/">reported ZimLive</a>.
The two, Danai Tigere (56), and Veronica Chitanda (40), were allegedly caught harbouring nine females believed to be key witnesses in the case which resulted in the arrest of Madzibaba Ishmael recently.
Tigere and Chitanda appeared before Harare magistrate Donald Ndirowei and were not asked to plead. They were granted US$50 each.
They were back in court on Friday, April 12, for bail application in the other case.
Prosecuting, Anesu Chirenje said that on March 13 this year, Chokurongerwa and seven accomplices were arrested by the police for contravening the Burial and Cremation Act and Children’s Act at Plot number 6 Lily Farm in Nyabira.
He further alleged that on March 28, police received information that the two were hiding victims suspected to be from Chokurongerwa’s sect house number 40 Ngamera Street, Mufakose Harare. Said the State prosecutor:
<blockquote>
On March 29, at 3 AM, a raid was conducted at Tigere’s residence where Previous Zogara, 20, Precious Tichaona, 20, Memory Matanga, 19, Rulendo Chimuti, 24, Vimbai Mufani, 21, Melody Chirinda, 20, Nomusa Tichaona, 18, and two minors were rescued by the police.
</blockquote>
When questioned, the pair could not provide a satisfactory explanation on why they were keeping the nine.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two Women Arrested For Harbouring Witnesses In Madzibaba Ishmael's Alleged Crimes

The body of a child who was allegedly buried at Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa’s shrine at Lily Farm in Nyabira without the knowledge of the mother was expected to be exhumed this Friday.
The mother of the child, Memory Mukanairi pleaded with authorities for the body to be exhumed.
It will be the second exhumation of a body at the shrine after the exhumation of the remains of the late Professor Itai Muwati, who died in unclear circumstances at the same shrine.
Prof Muwati’s brother claimed that his sibling was murdered by members of the cult after he decided to leave because he no longer agreed with some of the things which were happening at the shrine.
According to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/police-set-to-exhume-body-of-a-child-buried-at-ishmaels-nyabira-shrine-the-child-was-buried-without-the-knowledge-of-the-mother-other-people-set-to-visit-farm-to-check-for-missing-rel/">H-Metro</a>, a heavy police presence was expected at Lily Farm for the exhumation process just in case there was resistance from some of the cult members.
Madzibaba Ishmael and his co-accused, Takavengwa Gwenzi (55), Siribiniyo Chikunire (53), Wonder Kabaya (41), Devlodge Katsande (47), Zebediah Sigudu (49), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47) and Shingirai Ngavafume (42), who are all members of the cult, appeared before High Court judge Justice Rodgers Manyangadze on Thursday.
Madzibaba Ishmael was denied bail while his co-accused were granted bail by the High Court. He will remain in custody until their trial gets underway on May 7.
Justice Manyangadze granted bail to the seven accomplices while denying Madzibaba Ishmael’s release. He said the magistrate, who had previously denied bail to Madzibaba Ishmael’s seven accomplices, erred by adopting a dragnet approach and failing to identify the cult leader.
Madzibaba Ishmael and his accomplices stand accused of contravening Section 3 (1) and (2) of the Burial and Cremation Act 5:03 and Section 7(1) and (5) of the Children’s Act 5:06.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Police Set To Exhume Body Of A Child Buried At Madzibaba Ishmael's Shrine

Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa (54), the leader of a Johanne Masowe eChishanu Apostolic religious sect, along with seven other co-accused individuals, appeared before the Harare High Court today to appeal the dismissal of their bail application by a Norton Magistrate.
While the High Court rejected Ishmael Chokurongerwa’s appeal, bail was granted to the remaining seven accused.
Tomorrow, on April 5, 2024, the seven accused persons are scheduled to appear in court for the determination of the proposed bail conditions.
The trial for all eight individuals will commence on May 7, 2024, at the Norton Magistrates’ Court.
The charges against them stem from alleged violations of the Burial and Cremation Act and the Children’s Act.
Chokurongerwa’s co-accused are Shingirai Ngawafune (42), Takavengwa Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu (49), Devlodge Katsande (47), Wonder Kabaya (41), and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53). 
The State alleges that Chokurongerwa and his associates conducted funeral services for Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Kabaya without obtaining proper burial orders for the deceased. 
Furthermore, the sect leaders, who acted as guardians for the children residing at the church’s compound in Nyabira, are accused of neglecting, abandoning, and exposing the children to conditions likely to cause unnecessary suffering. 
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa Denied Bail By The High Court

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched an investigation into a perplexing case involving 20 young women.
In a statement issued on Thursday, 28 March, the ZRP said these women were discovered hiding at a secret house in Marimba, Harare.
The investigation centres around a religious shrine associated with Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa. 
Madzibaba Ishmael is the leader of a Johanne Masowe eChishanu Apostolic religious sect.
His shrine, located in Nyabira, has drawn attention due to its alleged involvement in the disappearance of these young women.
It is believed that these 20 young women were taken from Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine.
The ZRP is now investigating why these women were taken from the shrine, what purpose the secret house served, and those responsible for the removal of the young women.
As of now, specific details about the circumstances leading to the women’s disappearance and their subsequent discovery remain undisclosed. Police said:
<blockquote>
The ZRP is investigating the circumstances in which 20 young women believed to have been taken from Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine in Nyabira have been found hiding at a secret house in Marimba, Harare this afternoon. More details to be released in due course as police officers are currently attending the scene.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

20 Young Women Linked To Madzibaba Ishmael Found In Harare Hideout

The late Professor Itai Muwati’s brother alleges that his sibling was killed at Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa’s shrine due to disagreements over certain directives.
Madzibaba Ishmael allegedly instructed all men to forsake their non-virgin wives upon marriage, pledging to provide them with virgins as replacements — an edict that Professor Muwati apparently opposed.
Admire was speaking on Tilder’s show on StarFM on Tuesday, where he alleged that his brother was killed. He said (via <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/the-virgins-the-fallout-the-professors-murder-ishmael-ordered-all-men-to-dump-wives-who-were-not-virgins-at-marriage-these-men-were-then-promised-to-be-given-virgins-to-take-in-as-n/">H-Metro</a>):
<blockquote>
Madzibaba Ishmael akaudza vadzidzi vake kuti kana wakaroora mukadzi wako asiri mhandara murambe tinokupa mumwe mukadzi achiri wechidiki ari mhandara.
Varume pavakatanga kunzwa zvemadzimai manyowani vakatanga kusimudza musoro vachiti uku kwanaka kunopihwa madzimai emahara.
Ishmael akazoita munamato wembiya achiita varume kuti misana yavo isimbe nekuti vakange vave kuda kunoita zvevakadzi vakawanda.
Vanhu vese vakanwa from mbiya iyoyo vakabva vaita sokunge vaputirwa zvokuti hapana anonzwisisa ukada kutaura naye kunze kwekunge ndi Ishmael ariye ataura.
(If you try to have a conversation with them, and try to tell them anything bad about Ishmael, they will tell you that “Mambo Ishmael” said we should do this and that.)
</blockquote>
According to Admire, his brother suffered a brutal assault at the hands of Madzibaba Ishmael, following a village court session at the farm. He said:
<blockquote>
There came a time when my brother said what was happening at the church was not right because of the way that people were dying and also if you tried to go against “Mwari” Ishmael, you would die a mysterious death.
My brother was just addressing them as a learned person that the way they were now worshipping was not right.
There was a misunderstanding, among his right hand-men, and there was a village court at the farm, so Ishmael said God had instructed that my brother should die, they took their sticks and started beating my brother.
</blockquote>
Admire said they were now seeking help to go and retrieve the late professor’s property. He said:
<blockquote>
Our brother had wealth and properties and we are now looking for help to go get the things that he left there.
He left behind six children and it is difficult for us to take care of them so we need to go and get the cattle and other domestic animals that he left behind.
In 2022, he told us that he had 27 cattle, meaning that right now if we collect them we can start from somewhere so that his family and children are taken care of and go to school.
</blockquote>
Admire said that his brother’s relationship with Madzibaba Ishmael soured when the latter instructed congregants to liquidate their possessions and sever ties with their families. He said:
<blockquote>
I went against what Madzibaba Ishmael was saying and I left the church.
During that time, many men left their jobs because that is what they were told by Ishmael, my brother continued with his work at the University of Zimbabwe.
When Ishmael was arrested and jailed for four years, and upon his return he went to stay in Murehwa, one of his congregants found plots in Nyabira.
They invited everyone that they used to worship with to go and stay in Nyabira and they referred to it as their land of milk and honey (Canaan).
They were told to sell their phones, beds and televisions, his followers were doing anything and everything he said to the extent that he was referred to as god.
</blockquote>
Chokurongerwa and seven of his followers were arrested recently and appeared before Norton magistrate Christine Nyandoro. The court denied them bail, and they were remanded in custody until April 4 for routine proceedings.
The charges against them stem from alleged violations of the Burial and Cremation Act and the Children’s Act.
The co-accused are members of the Johane Masowe-aligned Gore Jena Penyera Nyika. Their names include Shingirai Ngawafune (42), Takavengwa Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu (49), Devlodge Katsande (47), Wonder Kabaya (41), and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53). All were represented by lawyer Purity Chikanganise during the court proceedings.
The State alleges that Chokurongerwa and his associates conducted funeral services for Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Kabaya without obtaining proper burial orders for the deceased. This violation raises serious legal concerns, as proper documentation is essential for respectful and lawful burials.
Furthermore, the sect leaders, who acted as guardians for the children residing at the church’s compound in Nyabira, are accused of neglecting, abandoning, and exposing the children to conditions likely to cause unnecessary suffering. The welfare of these vulnerable children is at the heart of the charges brought against the accused.
In a related incident, police raided the farm where the sect operated and rescued 251 children. Shockingly, 246 of these children were found to have no birth certificates, highlighting potential issues related to their legal identity and rights.
Additionally, during the investigation, authorities discovered 16 graves near Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine. These graves were determined to belong to nine adults and seven children. The circumstances surrounding these burials remain a subject of scrutiny.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"Professor Muwati Challenged Madzibaba Ishmael's Orders, And Was Killed For That"

Presidential spokesperson George Charamba has unequivocally refuted a statement purportedly issued by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, which directed law enforcement agents to immediately release Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa and his co-accused.
In a post on X captioning the fake statement, Charamba, the Deputy Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet (Presidential Communications) said:
<blockquote>
They will try all sorts of propaganda, what they can never do is to match the house style of OPC!
</blockquote>
The fake statement, titled “Presidential Directive: Release of Ishmael Chokurongerwa and Co-accused”, reads:
<blockquote>
Esteemed citizens, under the authority vested in the Presidency by Section 56 (1) of our esteemed constitution, it is directed that Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa and his co-accused be released forthwith.
The Presidency holds the firm belief that the allegations against these individuals, charged with purported violations of the Burial and Cremation Act and the Children’s Act, stemming from the discovery of 251 school-age children engaged in manual labour at their agricultural enterprise, alongside the presence of 16 unregistered graves, lack substantial merit.
It is worth noting that Madzibaba Ishmael has played a significant role within the Mapostori community during the recent electoral campaign.
In this regard, the President wishes to emphasize to the public the importance of refraining from attaching undue criticism to other religious affiliations and warns against the dissemination of false information.
</blockquote>
Chokurongerwa and his seven co-accused appeared before Norton magistrate Ms Christine Nyandoro. The court denied them bail, and they were remanded in custody until April 4 for routine proceedings.
The charges against them stem from alleged violations of the Burial and Cremation Act and the Children’s Act.
The co-accused are members of the Johane Masowe-aligned Gore Jena Penyera Nyika. Their names include Shingirai Ngawafune (42), Takavengwa Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu (49), Devlodge Katsande (47), Wonder Kabaya (41), and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53). All were represented by lawyer Purity Chikanganise during the court proceedings.
The State alleges that Chokurongerwa and his associates conducted funeral services for Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Kabaya without obtaining proper burial orders for the deceased. This violation raises serious legal concerns, as proper documentation is essential for respectful and lawful burials.
Furthermore, the sect leaders, who acted as guardians for the children residing at the church’s compound in Nyabira, are accused of neglecting, abandoning, and exposing the children to conditions likely to cause unnecessary suffering. The welfare of these vulnerable children is at the heart of the charges brought against the accused.
In a related incident, police raided the farm where the sect operated and rescued 251 children. Shockingly, 246 of these children were found to have no birth certificates, highlighting potential issues related to their legal identity and rights.
Additionally, during the investigation, authorities discovered 16 graves near Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine. These graves were determined to belong to nine adults and seven children. The circumstances surrounding these burials remain a subject of scrutiny.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Charamba Denies Purported Mnangagwa Order To Release Madzibaba Ishmael

A ZANU PF-affiliated group, Vapostori and MaZion for ED, emphasized that Zimbabweans should avoid generalizing all Vapostori based on the actions of Ishmael Chokurongerwa, commonly known as Madzibaba Ishmael.
Madzibaba Ishmael faces multiple charges, including allegations of denying children basic rights and conducting burials without burial orders.
During a media conference in Harare on Wednesday, 20 March, spokesperson Obey Mapuranga from Vapostori and MaZion for ED expressed confidence that the authorities will handle the matter professionally. Said Mapuranga (<a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/not-all-vapositori-are-like-madzibaba-ishmael/">via The Herald</a>):
<blockquote>
The people of Zimbabwe should continue to live together in peace and treat allegations against Madzibaba Ishmael as a singular case in which, if he is found guilty, we will engage the leaders of the National Judicial Council of Vapostori to proceed with religious counselling and guidance to the Vapostori families at Lilly Farm so that they continue worshipping, residing and farming in line with the right religious practices and freedom of religion according to the constitution of Zimbabwe.
We understand the seriousness of the allegations against Madzibaba Ishmael and his followers. However, we have full confidence in our law enforcement agencies and the judicial system to address these matters with the utmost professionalism.
</blockquote>
Mapuranga claimed the organisation is committed to upholding the religious and spiritual dictates of the Johanne Masowe Chishanu religion, which is against early marriages and child abuse.
Chokurongerwa and his seven co-accused appeared before Norton magistrate Ms Christine Nyandoro. The court denied them bail, and they were remanded in custody until April 4 for routine proceedings.
The charges against them stem from alleged violations of the Burial and Cremation Act and the Children’s Act.
The co-accused are members of the Johane Masowe-aligned Gore Jena Penyera Nyika. Their names include Shingirai Ngawafune (42), Takavengwa Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu (49), Devlodge Katsande (47), Wonder Kabaya (41), and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53). All were represented by lawyer Purity Chikanganise during the court proceedings.
The State alleges that Chokurongerwa and his associates conducted funeral services for Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Kabaya without obtaining proper burial orders for the deceased. This violation raises serious legal concerns, as proper documentation is essential for respectful and lawful burials.
Furthermore, the sect leaders, who acted as guardians for the children residing at the church’s compound in Nyabira, are accused of neglecting, abandoning, and exposing the children to conditions likely to cause unnecessary suffering. The welfare of these vulnerable children is at the heart of the charges brought against the accused.
In a related incident, police raided the farm where the sect operated and rescued 251 children. Shockingly, 246 of these children were found to have no birth certificates, highlighting potential issues related to their legal identity and rights.
Additionally, during the investigation, authorities discovered 16 graves near Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine. These graves were determined to belong to nine adults and seven children. The circumstances surrounding these burials remain a subject of scrutiny.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Not All Vapositori Are Like Madzibaba Ishmael - Vapositori4ED

Professor Itai Muwati’s family alleges that he was fatally assaulted by Madzibaba Ishmael Cokurongerwa’s followers, with the cult leader reportedly overseeing the attack.
Professor Muwati resided at Madzibaba Ishmael’s shrine in Nyabira. Some relatives claim he intended to leave the cult before the assault occurred.
One of Madzibaba Ishmael’s loyal followers reportedly took the academic, and he was still alive when buried.
Shortly after his demise, the family successfully exhumed Professor Muwati’s remains from the shrine’s shallow grave.
The postmortem results, delivered to the family on Monday, two years after his passing, indicate that Prof Muwati was poisoned.
After H-Metro ran a front-page story on Wednesday, March 20, Tichie D. Madiwanashe, who said the late Professor was his uncle, <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/nephew-claims-prof-muwati-was-buried-alive-claims-his-widow-was-snatched-by-a-cult-member-the-day-he-died-names-those-he-claims-butchered-the-professor-on-that-fateful-day/">said</a>:
<blockquote>
You were beaten whilst Ishmael was seated on a chair urging his assassins to deal with you ruthlessly, I am in tears sekuru as I write.
RIP Mkrugenzi, I can imagine the horror you went through.
Continue to rest in peace Sekuru Itai, we know your murderers and justice will finally be delivered as I promised you when you visited in my dream.
We are not resting, your mine, your vehicles, cattle, hanga, chickens, matoki, chigayo chemafuta, grinding mill, gas tanks and your money they looted, they shall return.
You bought Ishmael an Isuzu KB280 when he was released from prison, you gave him your C200 Benz, helped him more than anybody else did but this is how he chose to repay you.
Just because you wanted to leave his cult.
</blockquote>
Madiwanashe further alleged that the professor was brutally attacked with physical objects before he was made to drink a non-alcoholic traditional brew that was laced with poison. He wrote:
<blockquote>
We know James Takavengwa Gwenzi, Rinos Kabunu and Devlodge Phibion Katsande beat you up, we heard you fought back but stones were used to attack you, and knobkeries, you bled profusely and you were given pfuko, laced with poison.
We know they buried you alive, you breathed your last underground and Inspector Musekiwa… was, indeed, a stumbling block, however, at last, we are there, and you can now rest in peace.
We know Terrance Nhavira and Byton Andrew Muganhu are using your truck and Byton took your wife the day you were buried and your household property.
</blockquote>
Gwenzi and Katsande have been charged together with Madzibaba Ishmael. Said Madiwanashe:
<blockquote>
Byton took over the household property, house, kids, and wife plus the truck, the rest kuna Mambo weKenani, most projects they are doing were initiated and funded by Prof Muwati.
Other monies came from Oscar Hardware in Domboshawa, which had a stock of up to US$80 000 dollars and, for a good three months, it cashed directly to Ishmael, we hear his sons (Abedinigo and Stailodge) were behind the sales.
</blockquote>
Madzibaba Ishmael is jointly charged with seven other Johane Masowe, Gore Jena Penyera Nyika leaders namely Shingirai Ngawafune (42), James Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu, Devlodge Katsande (45), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47), Wonder Kabaya (41) and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53).
The accused were charged with violating the Burial and Cremation Act, and also contravening the Children’s Act.
On the first count, the State is alleging that sometime in November 2023 the accused persons conducted 2 burials in respect of the late Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Chibaya at Lily Farm compound in Nyabira without burial orders.
On the second count, the State is further alleging that sometime during the period extending from 2019 to date, the accused persons being parents or guardians neglected or exposed the children in their custody and care to living conditions that caused them unnecessary suffering or conditions that were detrimental to their health. The children were not allowed to go to school or access health care services.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Nephew Claims Prof Muwati Was Brutalised, Made To Consume Poison And Buried Alive At Madzibaba Ishmael’s Shrine

On 06 June 2022, a University of Zimbabwe academic passed away at Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa’s shrine.
The postmortem results, which were delivered to the family on Monday, indicate that the cause of death was poisoning.
According to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/uz-prof-was-poisoned-at-madzibaba-ishamels-shrine-family-demanding-his-30-cattle-two-vehicles-questions-conduct-of-nyabira-police-over-case/">H-Metro</a>, the postmortem results were retained at Nyabira Police Station for the past two years. 
Prof Muwati’s family is currently attempting to retrieve 30 cattle and two vehicles (including a Honda Fit and a grinding mill) that they assert belonged to the late Professor but vanished after his demise. 
Additionally, he is among numerous individuals believed to have been buried without a burial order at the Lily Farm compound in Nyabira.
His family informed H-Metro that they attempted to file a report with the police against Madzibaba Ishmael, suspecting foul play. However, their efforts were thwarted by the Nyabira police.
Subsequently, Prof Muwati’s body was exhumed by the family and reinterred at his rural home in Mhondoro-Ngezi.
The postmortem results, delivered to the family two years after his death, revealed that the late Prof Muwati had been poisoned.
Martin Muwati, the spokesperson for the Muwati family, stated that they now intend to retrieve his property from the compound. Said Martin:
<blockquote>
Something suspicious has been happening in Nyabira. Our relative died in 2022 and we were never given the postmortem results only to be called by the current Nyabira ZRP Officer In Charge yesterday (on Monday) to collect them.
We tried in vain to lodge a police report against Madzibaba Ishmael, following the death of Prof Muwati at his shrine in 2022.
The Officer in Charge, Musekiwa, blocked us saying (Madzibaba Ishmael’s) team was violent, and we felt threatened, but we now know that the issue was to stop us from collecting our late relative’s property.
Prof had 30 cattle, two vehicles that included a Honda Fit, a grinding mill, and a laptop but all these were never handed over to us.
Hanzi akafa asina chaakanga ainacho. It is now surfacing that Madzibaba Ishmael had been collecting everything of value from his followers, who include the late Prof Muwati.
</blockquote>
Martin stated that Professor Muwati’s personal belongings, including bank cards, were never located.
On June 6, 2022, Professor Muwati was discovered deceased under mysterious circumstances.
Shortly thereafter, he was interred in a shallow grave at Lily Farm. However, his relatives subsequently requested the exhumation of his remains.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

UZ Professor Who Died At Madzibaba Ishmael's Shrine Was Poisoned

Johane Masowe, Gore Jena Penyera Nyika leader Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa has been denied bail by Norton magistrate Christine Nyandoro.
Despite the accused’s assurances that they would not flee or obstruct justice, their significant influence within their community was deemed a considerable risk.
As reported by <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/madzibaba-ishmael-denied-bail-state-says-cult-leader-will-likely-victimise-witnesses-if-released/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, Madzibaba Ishmael is jointly charged with seven other leaders namely Shingirai Ngawafune (42), James Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu, Devlodge Katsande (45), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47), Wonder Kabaya (41) and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53).
The accused persons are serious charges including exploiting minors and contravening burial and cremation laws.
The eight will be back in court on April 4 for their routine remand.
In denying the group bail, the magistrate said there is a need to protect the interests of the nation as much as bail is a constitutional right. Said Nyandoro:
<blockquote>
Court will be guided by section 50 of the Constitution which provides that a person can only be deprived of bail if there are compelling reasons for bail denial.
</blockquote>
The State submitted that if released the accused are likely to interfere with witnesses and also that there will be public outrage and continued victimisation of witnesses.
The accused said they would not abscond and not interfere with witnesses. They said they needed to go back because the lives of 120 depend on them.
Nyandoro said the State’s reasons were quite compelling and outweighed the accused’s submissions. She said:
<blockquote>
In a nutshell, the State has managed to provide compelling reasons and the accused will remain in custody.
</blockquote>
Madzibaba Ishmael and his co-accused are represented by Purity Chikanganise.
Chokurongerwa is part of a wider group known as the white garment churches, Apostolic churches, or Vapostori.
These groups follow varying practices, some of which are at odds with the law, including underage marriages and resistance to modern medicine.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Madzibaba Ishmael Chokurongerwa And Co-accused Denied Bail

Ishmael Chokurongerwa, a self-styled prophet and leader of Johane Masowe (Gore Jena Penyeranyika), who was arrested earlier this week, claims that his sole “crime” is caring for approximately 120 families residing at Plot 6, Lily Farm, in Nyabira, reported <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/my-only-crime-is-taking-good-care-of-120-families/">H-Metro</a>.
During his bail application before Norton resident magistrate Christine Nyandoro on March 14, Chokurongerwa asserted that he has led a violence-free life since his 2014 conviction and is currently recovering from food poisoning that occurred in September last year.
The charges against him include contravention of Section 3 (1) and (2) of the Burial and Cremation Act 5:03 and Section 7(1) and (5) of the Children’s Act 5:06.
His co-accused individuals, including Takavengwa Gwenzi, Siribiniyo Chikunire, Wonder Kabaya, Devlodge Katsande, Zebediah Sigudu, Aaron Chokurongerwa, and Shingirai Ngavafume, are all members of his sect.
Allegations state that in November 2023, Madzibaba Ishmael and his accomplices conducted burials for Hazel Chikunhire and Winlet Kabaya without proper burial orders, violating the law.
Additionally, the State contends that since 2019, Madzibaba Ishmael and others neglected and exposed their children to various ailments, causing significant harm to their health.
The investigating officer, Denote Muchichwa, opposed bail, citing concerns about witness interference and potential harm to their children if bail is granted.
Muchichwa expressed concern about the disturbing state in which they discovered the children.
These young ones were being deprived of their fundamental rights to education and adequate healthcare due to their parents’ beliefs.
The accused individuals are scheduled to appear in court again on March 19 for the bail ruling.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Madzibaba Ishmael Says His Only Crime Is Taking Good Care Of 120 Families

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of a self-styled prophet and leader of Johane Masowe (Gore Jena Penyeranyika), Ishmael Chokurongerwa (56) at his Lily Farm in Nyabira on Tuesday, 12 March.
ZRP spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Nyathi on Wednesday, 13 March said Chokurongerwa and seven members of his church were arrested for criminal activities which include abuse of minors.
The other church members who were arrested are Shingirai Ngawafune (42), James Gwenzi (55), Zebedia Sigudu, Devlodge Katsande (45), Aaron Chokurongerwa (47), Wonder Kabaya (41) and Siribinio Chikurunhe (53). Said Asst Comm Nyathi:
<blockquote>
The arrest follows a raid made by the Police at the farm on 12th March 2024. Investigations conducted by the Police established that 246 out of 251 children below the age of 18 years found at the farm had no birth certificates and were being used to perform various physical activities for the benefit of the sect’s leadership.
Police established that all children of school-going age did not attend formal education and were subjected to abuse as cheap labour, doing manual work in the name of being taught life skills.
At the shrine, 16 graves were found of which nine graves are for adults and seven graves for infants. All burials were conducted without prior registration with the Registrar-General’s office in terms of the Birth and Death Registration Act, Chapter 5:02 or without obtaining burial orders in terms of the Burial and Cremation Act, Chapter 5:03.
</blockquote>
Asst Comm Nyathi said police will release more details in due course as investigations unfold.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

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