In a dramatic development that has sent shockwaves across Zimbabwe, Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries founder, Prophet Walter Magaya, was arrested early yesterday morning by a Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) crack team. The 41-year-old preacher faces multiple allegations of rape and fraud, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing controversies that have surrounded one of the country’s most high-profile religious figures for years.Confirming the arrest, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said:
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of church leader Walter Magaya in connection with several reports of rape and fraud. The suspect was arrested early today by a police crack team.”
Magaya has long been at the centre of allegations involving sexual abuse and financial misconduct, although previous investigations had failed to yield formal charges. His name has been linked to multiple accusations of sexual exploitation by former female congregants, prompting public outcry and repeated calls for accountability. Despite these concerns, police action had been limited until this latest development.
The first major public probe into Magaya’s conduct was launched by the Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC) in 2019. The inquiry focused on allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA) by the preacher. However, the investigation stalled after Magaya successfully mounted legal challenges that delayed proceedings. At the time, the commission noted:
“The investigation which was gazetted on the 23rd of August 2019 (General Notice No.1444/2019) was halted by the legal challenge launched by the key respondent Mr Walter Magaya (Prophet Magaya).”
In 2022, the ZGC resumed its probe after winning several court judgments in its favour (cases SC592/19, HC7347/19, and HH688/19). The commission urged citizens with complaints related to Magaya’s conduct to come forward, emphasizing that all allegations would be taken seriously. To date, the commission has not made its findings public, and it remains unclear whether the current arrest is directly linked to the ZGC’s ongoing investigations.
Beyond the sexual abuse allegations, Magaya has faced accusations of defrauding followers through a controversial housing scheme. Reports suggest that congregants invested funds for homes that were never delivered, raising concerns about the use of spiritual authority for personal financial gain. Over the years, victims have petitioned authorities to investigate, claiming that Magaya used his influence as a prophet to solicit money under false pretences.
Before his arrest, Magaya had been reportedly fasting for 31 days at a private “prayer mountain,” in preparation for a highly anticipated public return. The event, branded the “Night of Turn Around”, was scheduled for 7 November 2025, with social media promotions describing the preacher as returning “full of glory” with divine instruction and remarkable anointing. One post drew parallels with Moses descending from Mount Sinai, promising followers a transformative spiritual experience:
“When Moses came down from Mt. Sinai, he was carrying the presence of God. We shall experience power like never before.”
The arrest, however, has cast uncertainty over these plans. Police have yet to release detailed charges or indicate when Magaya will appear in court. Legal analysts note that the case could serve as a critical test for Zimbabwe’s law enforcement and gender justice systems, given the years of unresolved allegations involving one of the country’s most influential religious figures.
Magaya, once a ubiquitous presence in Zimbabwean media, commands a large following through his PHD Ministries, headquartered in Waterfalls, Harare. His influence extends beyond spiritual guidance, with a high-profile public persona and substantial social media reach.
Prophet Walter Magaya Arrested on Multiple Rape and Fraud Charges: A Turning Point in Zimbabwe’s Religious Controversies
As of last night, neither church officials nor Magaya’s legal team had issued a formal statement regarding the arrest. Observers say the unfolding case will be closely watched, not only for its legal implications but also for its potential impact on public confidence in religious institutions and mechanisms for holding leaders accountable.
The arrest marks a turning point in a saga that has dominated headlines for years. It underscores growing public and institutional pressure to ensure that no individual, regardless of status or influence, is above the law, and it signals a potential shift towards greater accountability within Zimbabwe’s religious and social landscape.
Whether this case will finally lead to convictions and justice for alleged victims remains to be seen, but yesterday’s developments undeniably represent a major moment in Zimbabwe’s ongoing struggle with gender-based violence and financial impropriety within influential institutions.
The nation now watches closely as the legal process unfolds, awaiting clarity on the charges and the steps the justice system will take to address long-standing allegations against one of its most prominent religious figures.
Source- Bulawayo24
