Prophet's home set on fire

A prophet who allegedly refused to assist clients who sought his services  for their ailing relative was left counting his losses after his homestead was set on fire for allegedly refusing to assist them.

While Prophet Paulos Ngwenya (73) was at his homestead with his family three males who are believed to be in their thirties arrived at his homestead in Madlambuzi area in Plumtree, Matabeleland South province and sought his help.

An insider said:"They told Ngwenya that their mother has been ailing for quite some time and they were directed to him by people he assisted. But Ngwenya refused to assist them as he was not feeling well on that particular day."

The trio did not take that kindly as they pressured him to travel with them to heal their mother but he flatly refused and that triggered emotions to boil as they accused him of being heartless and insensitive.

"They insulted him as they manhandled him while accusing him of being selective in his assistance.

"They accused him of being insensitive and heartless to their ailing mother. They kicked him and insulted him," said the relative.

Ngwenya's wife screamed for help and the law breakers thought the best way to inflict more pain to the prophet was by setting his home alight.

Property that included a bed, blankets, and kitchen utensils was set on fire, a witness added.

The arsonists quickly ran away. Ngwenya reported the matter to the police.

Matabeleland South police spokesperson Inspector Loveness Mangena confirmed the incident.

"We confirm the incident and we appeal for information that may lead to the arrest of the three suspects who are on the run after they burnt a prophet's homestead.

"The estimated value of the lost property is R170 000.

"Anyone who knows about their whereabouts may contact any nearest police station or call or send a tip-off to 0772226819,"she said.

Efforts to get a comment from the prophet were fruitless as his mobile number was not reachable.